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Localism: meaning, definitions and examples

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localism

 

[ˈləʊkəˌlɪz(ə)m ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in language

A word or phrase that is unique to a particular region or locality, often reflecting the culture or dialect of the area.

Synonyms

dialectical term, regionalism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
localism

Use when referring to a specific term or phrase that is unique to a particular local area or community.

  • The term 'bodega' is a localism commonly used in New York City to describe small grocery stores.
regionalism

Best used when identifying linguistic or cultural characteristics that are prevalent in a particular geographical region.

  • The word 'pop' instead of 'soda' is a regionalism found in the Midwest of the United States.
dialectical term

Appropriate for discussing words or expressions specifically tied to a regional dialect, often in a more formal or academic context.

  • 'Y’all' is a dialectical term used predominantly in Southern American English.

Examples of usage

  • The term 'bubbler' is a localism in Wisconsin for a water fountain.
  • The use of 'pop' instead of 'soda' is a localism in certain parts of the United States.
Context #2 | Noun

in customs

A custom, habit, or behavior that is characteristic of a particular place or group of people.

Synonyms

custom, tradition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
localism

See 'localism' above.

  • See 'localism' above.
tradition

Use 'tradition' when referring to beliefs, practices, or customs handed down from one generation to another. This word often conveys a sense of preserving cultural or familial heritage.

  • The tradition of celebrating New Year's Eve with fireworks has been passed down in my family for generations.
  • Wearing traditional clothing during the festival is an important tradition for us.
custom

Use 'custom' to refer to a traditional practice or method that is typical of a particular society, place, or time. This word is neutral and often emphasizes the habitual nature of the practice.

  • It is a custom in our village to greet visitors with a cup of tea.
  • The custom of shaking hands is common in many Western countries.

Examples of usage

  • The localism of giving gifts of food during the holidays is a tradition in this town.
  • The localism of shaking hands firmly is common in this region.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term combines 'local,' which comes from the Latin word 'locus,' meaning 'place,' with the suffix '-ism' indicating a practice or philosophy.
  • It was first used in English during the mid-19th century to describe movements promoting local community interests.
  • Over time, localism evolved to encompass cultural, economic, and political aspects focused on local identity.

Cultural Significance

  • Localism encourages the preservation of unique cultural identities and traditions that might otherwise be lost in globalization.
  • It fosters community engagement, where residents strengthen bonds by supporting local businesses and organizations.
  • Festivals celebrating local foods and traditions enhance social cohesion and promote pride in one’s community.

Economic Impact

  • Research shows that locally-owned businesses often reinvest a larger portion of their profits back into the local economy compared to national chains.
  • Supporting local producers can lead to improved sustainability as it reduces transportation emissions and promotes local sourcing.
  • Localism can enhance economic resilience, helping communities weather financial downturns through diversified local job creation.

Political Landscape

  • Many grassroots movements advocate for localism as a response to perceived inefficiencies in larger governmental structures.
  • Localist policies often emphasize decentralization, giving more power to city and regional governments.
  • The localism movement gained traction alongside calls for environmental sustainability, promoting policies that prioritize local resources and solutions.

Modern Movements

  • The rise of the farm-to-table movement exemplifies localism by connecting consumers directly with nearby food producers.
  • In the tech space, there are initiatives to support local tech startups over larger corporations, fostering innovation closer to home.
  • Localism has sparked interest in urban gardening and community-supported agriculture, encouraging people to grow food within their cities.

Translations

Translations of the word "localism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 localismo

🇮🇳 स्थानीयता

🇩🇪 Lokalismus

🇮🇩 lokalisme

🇺🇦 локалізм

🇵🇱 lokalizm

🇯🇵 ローカリズム (rōkarizumu)

🇫🇷 localisme

🇪🇸 localismo

🇹🇷 yerelcilik

🇰🇷 지역주의 (jiyeokjuui)

🇸🇦 المحلية (al-maḥalliyya)

🇨🇿 lokalismus

🇸🇰 lokalizmus

🇨🇳 地方主义 (dìfāng zhǔyì)

🇸🇮 lokalizem

🇮🇸 staðbundin tíðni

🇰🇿 жергіліктік

🇬🇪 ლოკალიზმი (lok'alizmi)

🇦🇿 yerlənmə

🇲🇽 localismo

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,069 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.