What does "essentialism" mean?
The view that objects have properties that are essential to them.
Essentialism
noun
noun ·Rare ·Advanced level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: The view that objects have properties that are essential to them.
- Grammar: essentialism is listed as noun.
- Nearest alternatives: ethnic essentialism, fixity, minimalism, typify common traits.
- Useful contrasts: cultural fabrication, existentialism, resemblances.
- Usage evidence: More problematic is the essentialism that interests modal logicians, namely "the view that some attributes belong to an object by necessity whereas others belong to it contingently."
How to use "essentialism"
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- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "essentialism" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
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- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
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- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "essentialism" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
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Compare nearby meanings
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Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "essentialism" is acting as noun in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "ethnic essentialism" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
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Final meaning check
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When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 The view that objects have properties that are essential to them. countable, uncountable
"More problematic is the essentialism that interests modal logicians, namely "the view that some attributes belong to an object by necessity whereas others belong to it contingently.""
- 2 The view that all members of certain groups of people (such as those with the same race, gender, age, or sexual orientation) have common, essential traits inherent to the defining feature of the group; (also) behavior or statement(s) that reflect such a view. countable, uncountable
"A closer examination of the components of essentialism is required for a better understanding of the relation between essentialism and prejudice toward the two social categories of interest in this dissertation, African Americans and gay men."
- 3 The doctrine that there are certain traditional concepts, values, and skills that are essential to society and should be taught to all students. countable, uncountable
"If a curriculum is dedicated to getting back to the basics, then we can be sure that the guiding philosophy is that of essentialism."
- 4 A lifestyle that seeks to minimize nonessentials in order to focus on what is important. countable, uncountable
"In this example is the basic value proposition of Essentialism: only once you give yourself permission to stop trying to do it all, to stop saying yes to everyone, can you make your highest contribution towards the things that really matter."
- 5 The theory that human beings are by nature (i.e. essentially) good and that evil is the product of society. countable, uncountable
"I should also mention that Rousseau's essentialism, unlike many of his contemporaries', is rather limited."
Synonyms
All synonymsAntonyms
Example
"More problematic is the essentialism that interests modal logicians, namely "the view that some attributes belong to an object by necessity whereas others belong to it contingently.""
Common questions
What is a synonym for "essentialism"?
Common synonyms include: ethnic essentialism, fixity, minimalism, typify common traits.
How do you use "essentialism" in a sentence?
More problematic is the essentialism that interests modal logicians, namely "the view that some attributes belong to an object by necessity whereas others belong to it contingently."
Etymology
From essential + -ism.