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Alienating: meaning, definitions and examples

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alienating

 

[ˈeɪ.li.ə.neɪ.tɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

social interaction

Alienating refers to actions, behaviors, or circumstances that cause someone to feel isolated or estranged. This term often describes experiences that push individuals away from a social group, community, or relationship. It can encompass feelings of loneliness or a position where one no longer belongs or feels welcomed. Environments or rhetoric that are alienating can have significant emotional effects on individuals, leading to a sense of disconnection and lack of support.

Synonyms

distant, estranging, isolating, unwelcoming.

Examples of usage

  • The alienating comments made her feel unwelcome.
  • His behavior was alienating to his friends.
  • An alienating work environment can decrease productivity.
  • She found the group's dynamics increasingly alienating.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Social interactions that are perceived as alienating can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
  • Studies show that people who feel alienated often have lower self-esteem and may withdraw from social activities.

Literature

  • Many authors explore the theme of alienation, showcasing characters who feel disconnected from their communities.
  • In modern novels, alienating experiences often reflect societal issues, such as immigration or technology's impact on personal relationships.

Sociology

  • In urban environments, rapid changes can lead to feelings of alienation among residents, as traditional community ties weaken.
  • Research indicates that marginalized groups often experience alienation more strongly due to societal discrimination.

Pop Culture

  • Science fiction films often explore themes of alienation, portraying characters who feel out of place in their own world or in alien societies.
  • Music frequently addresses alienation, with many songs highlighting feelings of being misunderstood or not fitting in.

Technology

  • The rise of social media has paradoxically increased feelings of alienation among users, despite its intention to connect people.
  • Studies suggest that excessive screen time can lead to a decrease in face-to-face interactions, contributing to a sense of isolation.

Translations

Translations of the word "alienating" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alienante

🇮🇳 परायापन

🇩🇪 entfremdend

🇮🇩 mengalienasi

🇺🇦 відчужуючий

🇵🇱 alienujący

🇯🇵 疎外する

🇫🇷 aliénant

🇪🇸 alienante

🇹🇷 yabancılaştırıcı

🇰🇷 소외시키는

🇸🇦 غريب

🇨🇿 odcizující

🇸🇰 odcudzujúci

🇨🇳 疏离的

🇸🇮 odtujajoč

🇮🇸 útangandi

🇰🇿 бөгде

🇬🇪 უცხო

🇦🇿 təcrid edən

🇲🇽 alienante

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,872, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.