Extremist: meaning, definitions and examples

🌪️

Add to dictionary

extremist

[ɪkˈstriːmɪst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

political ideology

A person who holds extreme or radical views, especially in politics.

Synonyms

fanatic, radical, zealot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
extremist	Used to describe someone who holds extreme political or religious views, often willing to go to great lengths or use extreme methods to achieve their goals. The term can have a negative connotation. The group was labeled as terrorists for their extremist actions. Their extremist beliefs led to violent protests.
radical	Describes someone who advocates for complete political or social reform, often using unconventional or extreme methods. It can be used in both negative and positive contexts depending on the perspective. The radical proposed a new system of governance. Her radical ideas changed the way we think about education.
fanatic	Refers to someone with excessive enthusiasm or intense, uncritical devotion to a cause or belief. Can be applied in various contexts such as religion, sports, or hobbies. It often has a negative connotation. He's a sports fanatic, never missing a single game. The fanatic refused to listen to any opposing views.
zealot	Used to describe a person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their ideological, religious, or political beliefs. The term carries a negative connotation. The zealot was unwilling to consider any alternatives to his plan. Historically, zealots have often been involved in violent movements.

Examples of usage

He was known for his extremist views on immigration.
The group was labeled as extremists by the media.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

religious beliefs

A person who advocates or resorts to measures beyond the norm, especially in religious beliefs.

Synonyms

fundamentalist, militant, sectarian.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
extremist	Used to describe someone who holds extreme political or religious views that are far removed from the average perspective. Often carries negative connotations. The extremist group was responsible for the attack on the embassy His extremist views make him a controversial figure
fundamentalist	Describes someone who strictly adheres to the basic principles of a religion or ideology, often interpreted in a traditionalist and literal manner. Commonly applied in a religious context. The fundamentalist preacher insisted on adhering to the original texts without any modern interpretations Her fundamentalist beliefs make her prioritize religious texts over contemporary issues
sectarian	Describes someone or something that is devoted to a particular sect, often in a way that leads to conflict or discrimination against others. Usually has negative connotations related to division and conflict. The sectarian violence between the two religious communities has been ongoing for decades His sectarian comments caused a lot of tension within the group
militant	Refers to someone who is aggressive and active in a cause, often willing to use force or confrontational methods. Can be used in both positive and negative senses depending on the perspective of the speaker. The militant group planned the protest to draw attention to their cause His militant stance on environmental issues has led to several arrests

Examples of usage

The extremist group carried out a series of attacks in the name of their beliefs.
She was considered an extremist for her strict interpretation of the doctrine.

^{Context #3 | Adjective}

describing behavior

Involving or promoting extreme actions or views, especially in politics or religion.

Synonyms

extreme, fanatical, radical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
extremist	Use 'extremist' to describe a person or group that holds extreme political or religious views and is often willing to take extreme actions to uphold those views. This term typically has a negative connotation. The authorities detained a group of extremists planning a violent protest. He was labeled an extremist because of his aggressive and uncompromising stance on environmental issues.
radical	Use 'radical' to describe someone or something looking for complete or significant change, often in a political or social context. While not always negative, it can imply extremist views or actions. The group's radical ideas sparked a lot of debates and controversy. She proposed a radical shift in the company's strategy to improve performance.
fanatical	Use 'fanatical' to describe an individual who is excessively enthusiastic or zealous about a particular cause, topic, or activity. This often implies irrationality or obsession and generally carries a negative connotation. He was fanatical about his fitness regime, spending hours in the gym every day. The fanatical supporters were willing to do anything to see their team win.
extreme	Use 'extreme' to describe something that is farthest in any direction, especially farthest from moderate or average. It can refer to conditions, opinions, actions, or feelings. The weather conditions were extreme, with temperatures dropping to -30 degrees. Her views on climate change were considered extreme by the majority.

Examples of usage

His extremist behavior alienated many of his colleagues.
The party's extremist agenda sparked controversy.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word has its roots in the Latin 'extremus', meaning 'the outermost' or 'last'.
It became popular in English during the 20th century, especially related to political and ideological beliefs.
The term can apply to many viewpoints, from politics to religion, emphasizing a departure from moderation.

Psychology

Extremist beliefs can often arise from a need for identity or belonging, particularly in marginalized groups.
People who hold extremist views may experience cognitive dissonance when faced with opposing opinions, leading to stronger adherence to their beliefs.
Research shows that feelings of anger, fear, and frustration can contribute to the adoption of extremist ideologies.

Sociology

Social isolation and lack of community can make individuals more susceptible to extremist groups that offer a sense of belonging.
Extremism can thrive in environments where there is a perceived injustice or dissatisfaction with the status quo.
Radicalization often occurs online, where individuals can find like-minded people and reinforce each other’s beliefs.

Current Events

In recent years, various global movements have highlighted how extremist views can influence politics and social movements.
Extremist activities have led to significant public discussions about security, tolerance, and freedom of speech in many societies.
Governments and organizations often implement strategies to counteract extremist ideologies and promote dialogue instead.

Pop Culture

Movies and books sometimes portray extremists as villains, showcasing the dangers of radical beliefs.
Documentaries often explore the lives of individuals who have left extremist groups, providing insights into why and how they change.
Music and art have also been mediums for expressing and sometimes critiquing extremist ideas, reflecting society’s concerns.

Translations

Translations of the word "extremist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 extremista

🇮🇳 अतिवादी

🇩🇪 Extremist

🇮🇩 ekstremis

🇺🇦 екстреміст

🇵🇱 ekstremista

🇯🇵 過激派

🇫🇷 extrémiste

🇪🇸 extremista

🇹🇷 aşırılık yanlısı

🇰🇷 극단주의자

🇸🇦 متطرف

🇨🇿 extremista

🇸🇰 extrémista

🇨🇳 极端分子

🇸🇮 ekstremist

🇮🇸 öfgamaður

🇰🇿 экстремист

🇬🇪 ექსტრემისტი

🇦🇿 ekstremist

🇲🇽 extremista

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,145, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
19142 exacerbate
19143 voicing
19144 reclaiming
19145 extremist
19146 ported
19147 nape
19148 bleach
...