solidarity
B2Formal, Neutral
Definition
Meaning
Unity and mutual support within a group, especially among individuals with a shared interest, goal, or situation.
A feeling of shared commitment and loyalty that binds members of a group together, often expressed through practical support or collective action, particularly in times of difficulty or opposition.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The word implies a moral or emotional bond that transcends simple cooperation. It often carries connotations of loyalty, resilience, and a shared struggle against an external force or challenge.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is largely identical. 'In solidarity with' is the standard prepositional phrase in both. The concept is strongly associated with trade union movements and political activism in both cultures.
Connotations
In British English, historical associations with the labour movement and trade unions are particularly strong. In American English, it is frequently used in contexts of social justice movements and international support.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in British English, reflecting its historical prominence in political and industrial discourse.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
solidarity with [someone/group]solidarity among [group members]in solidarity withshow/express/declare solidarity forVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Stand shoulder to shoulder (in solidarity)”
- “A show of solidarity”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare; used in HR contexts about team building or during industrial disputes.
Academic
Common in sociology, political science, and philosophy to discuss social bonds and collective action.
Everyday
Used in news and discussions about strikes, protests, or community support during crises.
Technical
Used in industrial relations and union law.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The union voted to solidarity with the striking postal workers.
American English
- The community solidarityed to support the family after the fire.
adverb
British English
- The workers acted solidarity, refusing to cross the picket line.
American English
- We stand solidarity with you in this fight.
adjective
British English
- A solidarity action was organised across several industries.
American English
- They made a solidarity donation to the fund.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The students showed solidarity by helping their sick friend.
- The workers went on strike in solidarity with their dismissed colleagues.
- International solidarity was crucial in providing aid after the natural disaster.
- The movement's strength derived not from ideology alone, but from the profound solidarity forged through shared hardship.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SOLID ARMY standing together - SOLIDarity is about being a solid, unbreakable group.
Conceptual Metaphor
SOLIDARITY IS A BOND / TIE. (e.g., 'the bonds of solidarity', 'ties of solidarity').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation with 'солидарность' in overly legalistic contexts. English 'solidarity' is more emotional and action-oriented than the Russian term, which can be a formal agreement.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'solidarity' to mean simple agreement (e.g., 'I am in solidarity with your opinion' is weak). It's better for group loyalty/action. Confusing preposition: 'solidarity to' is incorrect; use 'solidarity with'.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following best describes a key element of 'solidarity'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally yes, as it denotes unity and support. However, it can be viewed negatively by those opposed to the group expressing it (e.g., 'strikers showed solidarity' is positive for them, but possibly negative for management).
It's possible but uncommon. The word strongly implies a collective, a group. For two people, words like 'mutual support' or 'loyalty' are more typical.
'With' is the standard preposition (e.g., solidarity with the protesters). 'Among' is used to describe solidarity within a group (e.g., solidarity among neighbours).
No, there is no standard verb 'to solidarity'. Use phrases like 'to show solidarity', 'to express solidarity', or 'to stand in solidarity with'.
Collections
Part of a collection
Global Issues
B2 · 47 words · Vocabulary for discussing world problems and politics.
Philosophy and Ethics
C1 · 50 words · Philosophical concepts and ethical reasoning.
Social Theory
C1 · 47 words · Advanced vocabulary for sociology and social science.