Definition

A belief or movement that aims to make changes or improvements in society or a system.

Example

The political party focused on reformism to address social inequalities.

Conversation

I was reading about reformism in history class today.

Oh really? What did they say about it?

They discussed how it influenced many social movements.

That makes sense; it’s interesting how ideas can shape society.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reformism is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "form" (from Latin "formare", meaning to shape or form) and the suffix "-ism" (meaning a doctrine or belief). The word refers to the belief in or advocacy for making changes or improvements to existing structures or systems, particularly in a social or political context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'shaping again' ('re-' means again and 'form' means to shape) to remember that 'reformism' is about advocating for changes or improvements.

Visually Confused Words