Ethnicity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ethnicity
[ษฮธหnษชsษชti ]
Definitions
study of
The fact or state of belonging to a social group that has a common national or cultural tradition.
Synonyms
culture, heritage, nationality.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ethnicity |
Refers to a group of people who share common cultural traits, language, religion, or nationality. Used in discussions about identity and social groupings.
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| nationality |
Relates to the status of belonging to a particular nation, either by birth or through naturalization. Used when discussing citizenship and legal identity.
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| culture |
Pertains to the shared beliefs, practices, arts, and behaviors of a particular group or society. Commonly used when discussing traditions, customs, and societal norms.
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| heritage |
Refers to something that is passed down from previous generations; can relate to traditions, artifacts, or family history. Often used in the context of preserving history and legacy.
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Examples of usage
- Her research focuses on ethnicity and identity in contemporary society.
- The university offers courses in ethnicity and multiculturalism.
diversity
The fact or state of being diverse in terms of culture, race, or nationality.
Synonyms
diversity, multiculturalism, variety.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ethnicity |
Refers to the shared cultural, national, or racial characteristics that connect a specific group of people. Often used in contexts such as sociology, demography, and discussions involving cultural identity.
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| multiculturalism |
Refers to the presence and support of multiple cultural traditions within a single country or community. Often used in political, sociological, and educational contexts when discussing policies and societal structures.
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| diversity |
Indicates a range of different characteristics, often cultural, racial, or social, within a group or setting. Commonly used in discussions related to inclusion, workplaces, education, and community settings.
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| variety |
Denotes a selection of different types or kinds. This term has a broader application and can be used in various contexts, including cultural and non-cultural settings. Entirely neutral connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The city celebrates its rich ethnicity with a multicultural festival.
- We embrace the diversity of ethnicity in our community.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Sociology
- Ethnic identity can be a strong source of community and belonging for many individuals.
- The concept is used in various fields to study social behavior, group dynamics, and identity formation.
- Ethnicity can intersect with other identities, such as gender and class, impacting individual experiences.
Cultural Significance
- Different ethnicities contribute to the rich tapestry of global culture, showcasing diverse traditions, foods, and celebrations.
- Cultural festivals, like Diwali or Lunar New Year, often highlight the customs of various ethnic groups.
- Understanding ethnicity aids in fostering social harmony and appreciation for diversity.
History
- Ethnic groups have often faced issues of migration, assimilation, and discrimination throughout history.
- In some regions, ethnicity can be tied to conflict, as seen in cases of ethnic nationalism.
- The 20th century saw significant movements for ethnic rights and recognition across the globe.
Psychology
- People often develop their self-concept and identity based on their ethnic background.
- Research suggests that a strong ethnic identity can positively influence self-esteem and resilience.
- However, conflicts related to ethnicity can lead to stress and mental health challenges for individuals in certain contexts.
Origin of 'ethnicity'
Main points about word origin
- 'Ethnicity' comes from the Greek word 'ethnos' which means 'nation' or 'people'.
- The term began being widely used in English in the early 20th century to describe cultural groups.
- Before 'ethnicity', the term 'race' was more commonly used to signify group differences, but this has shifted over time.
The word 'ethnicity' originated from the Greek word 'ethnikos', meaning 'national', which later evolved to 'ethnos' meaning 'nation' or 'people'. In the 20th century, the term gained prominence in social sciences to describe the cultural and social identity of different groups within a population. Today, ethnicity is widely used to refer to the shared cultural traits, heritage, and identity of individuals belonging to a particular social group.
See also: ethnic, ethnical, multiethnic.