Communist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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communist
[ˈkɒmjʊnɪst ]
Definitions
political ideology
A person who supports or believes in the principles of communism, a political theory advocating class war and leading to a society in which all property is publicly owned and each person works and is paid according to their abilities and needs.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| communist |
Used when referring to someone who adheres to or believes in communism, especially in a historical or political context.
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| Marxist |
Refers to someone who follows the teachings and theories of Karl Marx, especially in a theoretical or academic context.
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| socialist |
Used when referring to someone who supports socialism, especially in a context that focuses on social and economic equality.
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| red |
Often used as a derogatory term for someone perceived as a communist or socialist; has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Many people view Karl Marx as the father of communism.
- Communists believe in the abolishment of private property.
member of a communist party
A member of a political party that supports the principles of communism and seeks to establish a communist society.
Synonyms
Bolshevik, comrade, revolutionary.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| communist |
This term is used to describe someone who adheres to the principles of communism, a political and economic ideology advocating for common ownership of resources and the absence of social classes.
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| comrade |
Commonly used to address or refer to a fellow member of a political organization, particularly within communist or socialist groups. It emphasizes solidarity and camaraderie.
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| revolutionary |
This term describes someone who advocates or actively participates in a significant change, often in a political or social context. It can have a positive or negative connotation depending on the perspective.
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| Bolshevik |
This word is specifically used to refer to members of the faction of the Russian Social Democratic Party led by Lenin that took power in the October Revolution of 1917. It often carries a historical context.
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Examples of usage
- He has been a communist for over 20 years.
- The communists organized a protest against the government.
related to communism
Relating to or supporting the principles of communism.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| communist |
Discussing political ideologies that advocate for a classless society where the means of production are owned and controlled by the community as a whole.
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| Marxist |
Describing someone who follows the ideas and theories of Karl Marx, particularly his critique of capitalism and his advocacy for a revolutionary proletariat. Often used in academic or theoretical discussions.
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| socialist |
Describing political and economic theories that advocate for public ownership or regulation of the means of production and distribution. Not as extreme as 'communist' and more mainstream in contemporary politics.
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| leftist |
Referring to someone with political beliefs that lean towards the left-wing, often advocating for social equality and government intervention in the economy. Can be used more broadly than 'communist' or 'Marxist'.
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Examples of usage
- The country had a communist regime for many years.
- She was known for her communist beliefs.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term originated in the 19th century, closely tied to Karl Marx’s theories about society and economics.
- The first major communist state was the Soviet Union, established after the Russian Revolution in 1917.
- Communism gained global attention during the Cold War as it created a political divide between Eastern and Western nations.
Political Theory
- Communism advocates for a classless society where all property is publicly owned.
- The philosophy aims to eliminate the gap between the rich and the poor, promoting collective ownership.
- Many communist movements worldwide are inspired by Marxist-Leninist theory, which combines Marx’s ideas with those of Vladimir Lenin.
Economics
- In communist economies, production and distribution are controlled by the state to ensure equal access to resources.
- Such economies often prioritize the needs of the community over individual profit, impacting how businesses operate.
- Several countries have tried varying degrees of communism, resulting in numerous adaptations and outcomes.
Criticism and Debate
- Critics argue that communism can limit individual freedoms and lead to authoritarian governance.
- Historical implementations of communism, particularly in the 20th century, have faced allegations of human rights abuses.
- Supporters claim it can reduce inequality and raise living standards for many.
Cultural Impact
- Communism has significantly influenced literature and art, inspiring works that critique capitalism and promote social justice.
- Many films and books portray communist themes, exploring its ideals and the challenges associated with its practice.
- The symbol of the hammer and sickle represents the unity of industrial and agricultural workers, central to the communist movement.
Origin of 'communist'
The term 'communist' originated from the French word 'communiste', which in turn came from the Latin word 'communis' meaning 'common' or 'universal'. The concept of communism as a political ideology developed in the 19th century, particularly with the works of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. It has played a significant role in shaping world history, influencing revolutions and political movements.