multiculturalism
C1Formal, Academic
Definition
Meaning
The policy or practice of recognising, respecting, and promoting the diverse cultures and ethnic groups within a society.
A social philosophy and political approach that advocates for the peaceful coexistence and equal status of different cultural traditions, often within a single nation. It extends to policies in education, language, art, and public life that celebrate diversity and foster inclusion.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The term often carries positive connotations of tolerance and inclusivity but can also be a subject of political debate regarding integration versus separation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
In British English, the term is strongly linked to post-war immigration and debates on national identity. In American English, it is more frequently associated with the historical 'melting pot' vs. 'salad bowl' models of immigration.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in Canadian and Australian public discourse due to official policies. In the US, 'diversity' is often used in similar contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
multiculturalism in [country/city]multiculturalism as a [policy/goal]commitment to multiculturalismVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A tapestry of cultures”
- “A salad bowl (vs. melting pot)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare; may appear in HR contexts regarding diverse workplaces or marketing to diverse demographics.
Academic
Frequent in sociology, political science, and cultural studies discussing identity, integration, and policy.
Everyday
Used in discussions about community, national identity, and social cohesion.
Technical
Used in specific policy analysis or social theory.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- The school's multicultural ethos was evident in its curriculum.
American English
- We attended a vibrant multicultural festival in the city.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- London is a city known for its multiculturalism.
- The government has policies that support multiculturalism.
- While multiculturalism aims to celebrate diversity, critics argue it can hinder social cohesion.
- Philosophical debates on multiculturalism often grapple with the tension between universal rights and cultural particularism.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'MULTIple CULTURES' living together in 'ISM' (a system or practice).
Conceptual Metaphor
SOCIETY IS A MOSAIC/TAPESTRY (where distinct pieces create a unified whole).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- False friend: 'мультикультурализм' is a direct loanword. However, the concept may be perceived more as a top-down political doctrine in Russian discourse, whereas in English it can also describe an organic social condition.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'multiculturalism' to mean simply 'having many cultures present' without the associated policy or ideological dimension.
- Confusing with 'multicultural' (adjective).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a common antonym for 'multiculturalism' in political discourse?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. Diversity describes the state of having variety, while multiculturalism is an active policy or ideology that manages and promotes that diversity.
Canada, Australia, and Sweden are often cited as having explicit multicultural policies at the national level.
Yes, it can also apply to historically co-existing indigenous or regional cultures within a single state.
It is neutral in denotation but often positive in proponents' usage. Critics may use it pejoratively to imply excessive separatism.
Collections
Part of a collection
Cultural Topics
B2 · 47 words · Analyzing culture, society and identity.
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