Meaning & Definition of word "Isolationism"

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    Isolationism

    /ˌaɪsəˈleɪʃənɪzəm/

    noun:

    • 1. A policy of remaining apart from the affairs or interests of other groups, especially the political affairs of other countries.
      • Example: The country's isolationism during the early 20th century led to a lack of involvement in international conflicts.
    • 2. A national policy of abstaining from political or economic relations with other countries.
      • Example: Isolationism became a significant theme in the political discourse as some leaders advocated for the nation to focus on domestic issues.
    • 3. The practice or doctrine that advocates for a country to avoid alliances and other forms of engagement with external nations.
      • Example: Many historians argue that the United States' isolationism prior to World War II contributed to the initial challenges faced during the conflict.

    Etymology

    Derived from the word 'isolation' which comes from the Latin 'insularis', meaning 'of an island', plus the suffix '-ism' denoting a doctrine or practice.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    isolationist policy:

    A strategy focusing solely on domestic issues and avoiding foreign entanglements.

    period of isolationism:

    A historical time when a country chose to remain uninvolved in international affairs.

    isolationist sentiment:

    The collective feeling of a population preferring a non-interventionist stance.

    Related Words

    isolation:

    The state of being separated from others.

    neutrality:

    The state of not supporting or helping either side in a conflict.

    detachment:

    The state of being objective or aloof.

    Slang Meanings of isolationism

    Meaning: Going solo

    Example Sentence: She prefers going solo in life, practicing her own brand of isolationism.

    Meaning: Homebody lifestyle

    Example Sentence: His homebody lifestyle is his way of embracing isolationism.