cultural appropriation: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Not exactly, but they are closely linked. Cultural appropriation is often a manifestation of racism or colonial attitudes, as it disregards the significance of cultural elements to marginalised groups and reinforces power imbalances.

Yes. It often occurs between dominant and minority/subordinated groups within the same nation-state, such as the adoption of Black American musical styles or slang by white Americans without acknowledgment or in a mocking context.

Appreciation involves seeking to understand, honour, and respect another culture, often with permission and context. Appropriation involves taking elements out of context, often for personal gain or trendiness, without understanding or respect, and typically by a more dominant group.

Not inherently. Enjoying and participating in other cultures is generally seen as positive. The line is crossed when elements are used disrespectfully, without understanding, for profit by outsiders, or when sacred/traditional items are treated as fashion or commodities.

The unacknowledged or inappropriate adoption of the customs, practices, ideas, or artistic styles of one culture or people by members of a typically more dominant culture or people.

Cultural appropriation is usually formal; academic; sociopolitical discourse in register.

Cultural appropriation: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkʌltʃərəl əˌprəʊpriˈeɪʃən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkʌltʃərəl əˌproʊpriˈeɪʃən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.