Cliquishly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cliquishly
[ˈklɪkɪʃli ]
Definition
social behavior
In a cliquishly manner means to act in a way that is exclusive and promotes a sense of belonging within a group while often alienating those outside of it. This term is often used to describe interactions within social or peer groups that create invisible barriers.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- They cliquishly ignored anyone who didn't fit in.
- Her cliquishly formed group often excluded newcomers.
- The members interacted cliquishly, making it hard for outsiders to join.
- In school, the students often acted cliquishly during lunch.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Social Psychology
- Groups often form cliques as a way to create social identity, providing members with a sense of belonging.
- Cliquish behavior can contribute to social dynamics in schools or workplaces, sometimes leading to exclusion or bullying.
- Studies suggest that being part of a clique can impact self-esteem, as acceptance in such groups can be tied to personal validation.
Pop Culture
- In many teen movies, cliques are often depicted with characters who are overly exclusive, such as 'the popular kids' or 'the outcasts.'
- Television shows frequently explore the dynamics of cliquish behavior, showing how it can both bond friends and create conflict.
- One of the most famous examples is the 'Mean Girls' movie, which illustrates the challenges of navigating social groups in high school.
Education
- Cliquish behavior can impact classroom dynamics, possibly leading to disengagement among students who feel left out.
- Teachers are encouraged to promote inclusivity to mitigate the negative impacts of cliques on student relationships.
- Programs that encourage teamwork and collaboration aim to break down clique-like behavior and foster a more inclusive environment.
Sociology
- Cliques are seen as a way for individuals to reinforce social hierarchies and control group membership.
- In communities, cliquishness can lead to polarization, where groups develop strong in-group loyalty while excluding others.
- Research indicates that cliques can also form around shared interests beyond age, such as hobbies or professional goals.
Origin of 'cliquishly'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'clique' comes from the French word 'cliquer,' meaning 'to make a noise' or 'to click,' referencing groups that signal each other.
- It was first used in English in the 19th century to describe small exclusive groups of people.
- The suffix '-ishly' indicates a manner or quality, so 'cliquishly' describes actions done in a certain way typical of cliques.
The word 'cliquishly' is derived from the noun 'clique', which originated in the early 19th century. 'Clique' comes from the French word 'clique', meaning a group of people who associate closely, typically to the exclusion of others. The adverbial form 'cliquishly' emerged to describe actions or behaviors that reflect the characteristics typical of a clique. This term has become significant in sociological discussions regarding social dynamics, particularly in the study of group behavior and social stratification. Its usage has evolved alongside discussions about social inclusion and exclusion, particularly within educational and professional contexts.