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revanchism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /rɪˈvænʧɪzəm/

KK: /rɪˈvænʧɪzəm/

noun
Definition

A political policy aimed at recovering lost land or territory, often after a conflict or war.


Example

The country's revanchism was evident in its demands for the return of the territories it had lost in the previous war.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the concept of revanchism in politics?
Sloth B
Yeah, it’s the idea of wanting to regain lost territory, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! It’s interesting how that mindset can influence international relations.
Sloth B
For sure, it often leads to tension between countries.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
reclamation
restoration
retrieval
Antonyms
surrender
loss
abdication
Root Explanation

Revanchism is derived from the French word 'revancher' (meaning to take revenge) and the suffix '-ism' (indicating a doctrine or belief). The term refers to a political policy or movement aimed at recovering lost territory or asserting national pride, often through revenge or retribution.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking revenge' ('revancher') as a way to remember that revanchism is about a belief in recovering lost territory.

Visually Confused Words
frenchism
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