Appropriation: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the Latin 'appropriare', meaning 'to make something one’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.

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.

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.

• ...
• 2675 dispute
• 2676 observe
• 2677 duration
• 2678 appropriation
• 2679 coffee
• 2680 arising
• 2681 guard
• ...