localism: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2formal/academic
Quick answer
What does “localism” mean?
A word, phrase, pronunciation, or custom peculiar to a particular place.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A word, phrase, pronunciation, or custom peculiar to a particular place.
1) A preference for or devotion to one's own locality or region, often over national interests. 2) In linguistics, a linguistic feature unique to a specific geographical area. 3) In politics/philosophy, the principle of prioritizing local control and decision-making.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Slightly more common in UK political discourse regarding devolution. In US, often appears in discussions of 'states' rights' or municipal governance.
Connotations
UK: Often associated with regional identity (e.g., Scottish localism). US: Frequently tied to libertarian or decentralist movements.
Frequency
Low frequency in both varieties, but higher in political science/linguistics contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “localism” in a Sentence
[Noun] is a classic example of localism.The movement advocates for greater [localism].His speech was full of regional [localisms].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “localism” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The localist agenda gained traction in the council elections.
- She holds strongly localist views.
American English
- The localist movement focuses on county-level governance.
- Their platform is distinctly localist.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in 'economic localism' referring to supporting local businesses.
Academic
Common in political science, linguistics, sociology, and cultural studies.
Everyday
Very rare. Would be marked as a sophisticated term.
Technical
Specific term in dialectology and political theory.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “localism”
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “localism”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “localism”
- Using 'localism' to mean simply 'local area' (e.g., 'I love the localism' - incorrect).
- Confusing with 'locale' or 'locality'.
- Misspelling as 'localicism'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is context-dependent. In linguistics, it's neutral. In politics, it can be positive (empowering communities) or negative (being narrow-minded).
'Localism' typically refers to a much smaller scale (a town, village) or a philosophical commitment to the local. 'Regionalism' concerns larger areas (like Catalonia or Bavaria) and often involves stronger cultural/political identity.
Yes. In linguistics, a 'localism' can be a single word or phrase unique to a place (e.g., 'bubbler' for water fountain in parts of the US).
'Localist' (e.g., a localist policy, localist movements).
A word, phrase, pronunciation, or custom peculiar to a particular place.
Localism is usually formal/academic in register.
Localism: in British English it is pronounced /ˈləʊkəlɪz(ə)m/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈloʊkəlɪzəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A triumph of localism over common sense.”
- “To fall prey to localism.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: LOCAL-ISM. An 'ism' (doctrine/principle) focused on the LOCAL.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE SMALL CIRCLE IS PREFERABLE (to the large circle).
Practice
Quiz
In a political context, which of the following is MOST opposed to the principle of localism?