rightism: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

They are closely related, but not identical. 'Rightism' is a broader umbrella term for ideologies on the political right, which can include conservatism, libertarianism, reactionism, and fascism. 'Conservatism' is a specific tradition within rightism.

It is primarily a descriptive, neutral term in academic discourse. However, in everyday political debate, its connotations depend entirely on the speaker's own political stance; it can be used positively by supporters or negatively by opponents.

Broadly, rightism emphasizes tradition, hierarchy, authority, and private property, while leftism emphasizes equality, social justice, reform, and often greater economic intervention by the state. They represent opposing ends of the traditional political spectrum.

No, it is a low-frequency, formal word. In everyday conversation, people are more likely to use terms like 'conservative views', 'right-wing politics', or the name of a specific ideology (e.g., 'libertarianism').

The principles, policies, or ideology of the political right.

Rightism is usually formal, academic, political in register.

Rightism: in British English it is pronounced /ˈraɪtɪz(ə)m/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈraɪtɪzəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.