Xenophobic: meaning, definitions and examples

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xenophobic

 

[ ˌzɛnəˈfoʊbɪk ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Showing a dislike or prejudice against people from other countries.

Synonyms

bigoted, intolerant, racist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
xenophobic

When describing an irrational fear or hatred of people from other countries or cultures.

  • The politician's xenophobic remarks caused widespread outrage.
  • Her xenophobic attitude made it difficult for her to appreciate foreign traditions.
racist

To describe attitudes, behaviors, or policies that explicitly discriminate against people based on their race or ethnicity. This term carries a highly negative connotation.

  • The company's racist policies were condemned by human rights organizations.
  • His racist remarks led to his dismissal from the school.
bigoted

When referring to a strong and unreasonable attachment to one's own opinions and a prejudiced intolerance towards different views, particularly in the context of race, religion, or beliefs.

  • His bigoted comments about minorities were unacceptable.
  • She lost many friends due to her bigoted stance on immigration.
intolerant

When someone is unwilling to accept or respect different opinions, beliefs, or behaviors. This term is broader and can apply to various contexts such as race, religion, gender, etc.

  • He was intolerant of anyone who disagreed with his opinions.
  • Her intolerant behavior alienated her from her peers.

Examples of usage

  • He had a xenophobic attitude towards immigrants.
  • The politician's xenophobic remarks sparked controversy.
Context #2 | Noun

society

A person who has a fear or hatred of foreigners or strangers.

Synonyms

bigot, hater, racist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
xenophobic

Used to describe someone who has an intense or irrational fear or dislike of people from other countries or cultures. Commonly used in discussions about immigration or multiculturalism.

  • Her xenophobic comments about immigrants were shocking.
  • The government faced criticism for its xenophobic policies.
racist

Describes someone who believes that some races are superior to others, or who has racial prejudices and discriminates based on race. Important in discussions about social justice and equality. This term has a highly negative connotation.

  • His racist remarks caused an uproar at the meeting.
  • They are working hard to combat racist attitudes in society.
bigot

Refers to a person who is stubbornly devoted to their own opinions and prejudices, especially regarding race, religion, or politics. Often implies intolerance towards different views.

  • He's such a bigot, he won't even listen to other people's opinions.
  • The group was known for its bigoted attitudes towards minorities.
hater

A colloquial term for someone who expresses intense dislike or hostility, often used in casual or informal situations. Can apply to various types of disliking beyond race or nationality.

  • Don't let the haters get you down.
  • He's always been a hater when it comes to pop music.

Examples of usage

  • The rise of xenophobia in the country is concerning.
  • Xenophobes often have irrational fears of cultural differences.

Translations

Translations of the word "xenophobic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 xenofóbico

🇮🇳 विदेशी विरोधी

🇩🇪 fremdenfeindlich

🇮🇩 xenofobia

🇺🇦 ксенофобний

🇵🇱 ksenofobiczny

🇯🇵 外国人嫌い

🇫🇷 xénophobe

🇪🇸 xenófobo

🇹🇷 yabancı düşmanı

🇰🇷 외국인 혐오의

🇸🇦 كاره للأجانب

🇨🇿 xenofobní

🇸🇰 xenofóbny

🇨🇳 仇外的

🇸🇮 ksenofobičen

🇮🇸 útlendingahatari

🇰🇿 ксенофобиялық

🇬🇪 ქსენოფობიური

🇦🇿 ksenofobik

🇲🇽 xenófobo

Etymology

The term 'xenophobic' originates from the Greek words 'xenos' meaning 'foreigner' and 'phobos' meaning 'fear'. It first appeared in English in the late 19th century, during a period of increased nationalism and fear of outsiders. Xenophobia has been a recurring issue throughout history, often fueled by political rhetoric and economic concerns.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,315 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.