Appropriation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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appropriation

[ษ™หŒprษ™สŠprษชหˆeษชสƒ(ษ™)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

art

The act of taking something for one's own use, typically without the owner's permission.

Synonyms

confiscation, expropriation, seizure.

Examples of usage

  • The appropriation of images from the internet is a common practice among artists.
  • His artwork explores themes of cultural appropriation and identity.
Context #2 | Noun

finance

The action of taking funds or assets for a specific purpose.

Synonyms

allocation, allotment, assignment.

Examples of usage

  • The budget included an appropriation of $1 million for the new project.
  • The appropriation of funds for education is a top priority for the government.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Cultural Studies

  • Cultural appropriation often occurs in fashion, music, and art, where elements of one culture are adopted by another, sometimes leading to controversy.
  • Critics highlight that this practice can strip away the original meaning of cultural elements, reducing them to mere trends.
  • Examples include the use of Native American headdresses in modern fashion, which can inadvertently offend those who honor their significance.

Art and Literature

  • In literature, appropriation can involve reinterpreting existing stories, bringing new perspectives while potentially overshadowing the original creators.
  • Some artists use styles or symbols from different cultures to create new works, sparking debates on whether it constitutes appreciation or appropriation.
  • In the visual arts, appropriation can act as a form of commentary, challenging social and cultural norms.

Social Implications

  • The debate over appropriation highlights issues of privilege, power dynamics, and respect within cultural exchanges.
  • Understanding the context in which elements are borrowed is crucial to discussing whether it's appropriation or appreciation.
  • Some scholars advocate for collaborative approaches to cultural exchanges, promoting mutual respect and recognition.

Media and Pop Culture

  • Pop songs and movies often incorporate styles from various cultures, sometimes leading to accusations of cultural appropriation.
  • Celebrity endorsements of certain trends can amplify appropriation discussions, especially when creators from the original culture are sidelined.
  • Social media platforms have become battlegrounds for conversations regarding ownership and representation in culture.

Origin of 'appropriation'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin 'appropriare', meaning 'to make something oneโ€™s own'.
  • It was first used in English around the 15th century and originally referred to taking possession of something.
  • Over time, it gained a cultural context, particularly in discussions of art and social practices.

The word 'appropriation' originates from the Latin word 'appropriationem', which means a making one's own. It has been used in English since the 14th century and has evolved to encompass various contexts, from art to finance.


See also: appropriate, appropriately, appropriateness, inappropriate, inappropriately, inappropriateness, misappropriate, misappropriation, unappropriated.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,678, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.