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neocolonialism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌniːəʊkəˈləʊnɪəlɪzəm/

KK: /nɪˌoʊkəˈloʊnɪəlɪzəm/

noun
Definition

A practice where a powerful country uses economic and political methods to control or influence weaker countries, often after the end of formal colonial rule.


Example

Many critics argue that neocolonialism continues to affect the development of poorer nations.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the concept of neocolonialism?
Sloth B
Yeah, I read something about it recently. It's quite interesting.
Sloth A
It's crazy how some countries still influence others economically, right?
Sloth B
Absolutely! It makes you think about the power dynamics in the world.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
imperialism
colonialism
exploitation
Antonyms
independence
autonomy
liberation
Root Explanation

Neocolonialism is formed from "neo-" (meaning new) and "colonialism" (from Latin "colonia", meaning settlement or colony, and the suffix "-ism", indicating a practice or ideology). The term refers to a new form of colonialism where a country exerts control over another, often economically or politically, without direct territorial occupation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'neo-' meaning 'new' and 'colonialism' referring to the practice of establishing colonies. This helps you remember that neocolonialism is a new way of exerting control over other nations.

Visually Confused Words
colonialism
noncolonial
colonialist
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