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tribal

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈtraɪbəl/

KK: /ˈtraɪbəl/

adjective
Definition

Relating to a group of people who share a common culture, language, or history, often living together in a community.


Example

The tribal leaders gathered to discuss important matters for their community.


Conversation
Sloth A
I just read a book about tribal cultures in Africa.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! What did you learn?
Sloth A
The rituals and traditions were so unique and beautiful, really tribal in nature.
Sloth B
I'd love to hear more about it; it must have been an eye-opening experience.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
clannish
ethnic
communal
Antonyms
individual
unrelated
isolated
noun
Definition

A person who belongs to a social group that shares a common culture, language, and traditions, often living in a specific area or region.


Example

The tribal members gathered to celebrate their annual festival.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever met someone from a tribal community?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but I'd love to learn more about their culture.
Sloth A
I read that they have some really unique traditions.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Tribal → It is formed from "tribus" (from Latin, meaning a division or group of people) and the suffix "-al" (meaning relating to). The word "tribal" refers to something that is related to a tribe or a group of people with a common culture or ancestry.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'tribe' as a group of people with shared culture, and the '-al' means relating to them. This helps you remember that 'tribal' means relating to a group of people.

Visually Confused Words
trial
untribal
tripal
trinal
trabal
tiriba
timbal
tibial
Is this page helpful?
Yeah, it would be fascinating to experience a tribal festival.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
indigenous
native
aboriginal
Antonyms
settler
foreigner
outsider