Imperialist: meaning, definitions and examples

🌐

Add to dictionary

imperialist

[ɪmˈpɪəriəlɪst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

politics

A person who supports or practices imperialism, typically in the form of expanding a country's power and influence through colonization, military conquest, or economic dominance.

Synonyms

colonizer, conqueror, expansionist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
imperialist	This term is often used in a historical or critical context to describe the practice of extending a country's power and influence. It can have a negative connotation. The imperialist era changed the course of history for many nations Many view the imperialist approach as outdated and unjust
colonizer	Typically used to refer to a person or nation that establishes control over indigenous lands and peoples, usually to exploit natural resources. This term often carries a negative connotation. The colonizers imposed their own culture on the native population Many nations suffered under the harsh rule of their colonizers
expansionist	Refers to a policy or person that promotes territorial or economic expansion, often by taking over neighboring regions. This term can be neutral but is sometimes seen as aggressive. The country's expansionist policy led to the annexation of surrounding territories Critics argue that expansionist ambitions could lead to unnecessary conflicts
conqueror	Best used to describe a person or army that takes control of a region or country through military force. This term often emphasizes the act of violent acquisition. Alexander the Great was one of history’s most famous conquerors The conqueror's army marched into the city, leaving destruction in its wake

Examples of usage

The imperialists believed in the superiority of their nation and sought to dominate other countries.
During the 19th century, European imperialists established colonies in Africa and Asia.
Many historians criticize the actions of imperialists for exploiting resources and oppressing indigenous populations.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

history

Relating to or characteristic of imperialism.

Synonyms

colonialist, domineering, oppressive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
imperialist	Used when describing a nation or entity exerting power and influence over others, especially in political or economic control over weaker nations. The imperialist policies of the 19th century European nations reshaped the boundaries of Africa Many critics refer to the country's foreign policy as imperialist
colonialist	Used when discussing the historical context of settlers establishing control over indigenous lands and peoples, often in terms of exploitation. The colonialist mindset of the early settlers led to the displacement of many native tribes Colonialist history often overlooks the suffering of the local population
domineering	Refers to an individual or group's behavior that is bossy, controlling, or assertively overbearing, typically in social or personal relationships. She left him because of his domineering attitude, never allowing her to make decisions His domineering nature made it difficult for him to maintain friendships

Word

Description / Examples

imperialist

Used when describing a nation or entity exerting power and influence over others, especially in political or economic control over weaker nations.

The imperialist policies of the 19th century European nations reshaped the boundaries of Africa
Many critics refer to the country's foreign policy as imperialist

colonialist

Used when discussing the historical context of settlers establishing control over indigenous lands and peoples, often in terms of exploitation.

The colonialist mindset of the early settlers led to the displacement of many native tribes
Colonialist history often overlooks the suffering of the local population

domineering

Refers to an individual or group's behavior that is bossy, controlling, or assertively overbearing, typically in social or personal relationships.

She left him because of his domineering attitude, never allowing her to make decisions
His domineering nature made it difficult for him to maintain friendships

Examples of usage

The imperialist policies of the British Empire led to the colonization of many countries.
Imperialist powers often justified their actions as bringing civilization and progress to less developed regions.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'imperialism' gained popularity in the late 19th century, particularly as European countries expanded their empires across Africa and Asia.
Roman Empire was one of the earliest examples of imperialism, stretching its influence across Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East.
The concept often arises in discussions about colonialism, where powerful nations exploit and dominate weaker regions.

Literature

Joseph Conrad's novella 'Heart of Darkness' critiques imperialism by revealing the brutal exploitation of Africa.
In literature, characters representing imperialist attitudes often face moral dilemmas, showcasing the conflict between power and ethics.

Science and Technology

Imperialism led to technological advancements being rapidly spread and adapted, as colonizers brought innovations to their conquered lands.
Many medical and scientific discoveries were made during imperialist times, although often through unethical means such as exploitation of local populations.

Psychology

The mindset of an imperialist can be understood through theories of dominance and power relations in psychology.
Research suggests that the desire for control is a fundamental human trait, which can manifest in imperialistic behaviors when expressed on a national level.

Pop Culture

Films and games often portray imperialism, illustrating conflicts resulting from powerful nations trying to rule over others, like in 'Avatar' and 'Civilization.'
The themes of imperialism are explored in various genres, reflecting societal views on power dynamics, colonization, and intervention.

Translations

Translations of the word "imperialist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imperialista

🇮🇳 साम्राज्यवादी

🇩🇪 Imperialist

🇮🇩 imperialis

🇺🇦 імперіаліст

🇵🇱 imperialista

🇯🇵 帝国主義者 (ていこくしゅぎしゃ)

🇫🇷 impérialiste

🇪🇸 imperialista

🇹🇷 emperyalist

🇰🇷 제국주의자 (jegukjuuija)

🇸🇦 إمبريالي

🇨🇿 imperialista

🇸🇰 imperialista

🇨🇳 帝国主义者 (dìguó zhǔyì zhě)

🇸🇮 imperialist

🇮🇸 keisarasinni

🇰🇿 империалист

🇬🇪 იმპერიალისტი

🇦🇿 imperialist

🇲🇽 imperialista

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,136, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
12133 gentry
12134 perjury
12135 synagogue
12136 imperialist
12137 shielding
12138 candid
12139 seeded
...