What does "tribalism" mean?
The condition of being tribal.
Tribalism
/ˈtɹaɪ.bə.lɪ.zəm/ noun
noun ·Rare ·Advanced level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: The condition of being tribal.
- Grammar: tribalism is listed as noun.
- Nearest alternatives: academic concept, allegiance, bias, group behavior.
- Useful contrasts: brotherhood, cosmopolitanism, fairness.
- Usage evidence: Many people say tribalism is human nature.
How to use "tribalism"
- Start with the primary definition, then check the part of speech before placing the word in a sentence.
- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "tribalism" 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
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- 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 "tribalism" 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
Read the first definition as a starting point, then check the example, synonyms, and part of speech before treating "tribalism" as the right word for your sentence.
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Compare nearby meanings
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Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "tribalism" 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 "academic concept" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
Use the example sentence below as an evidence check, then read your own sentence out loud to catch tone or rhythm problems.
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Final meaning check
Before publishing a sentence with "tribalism", ask whether the word helps the reader understand the idea faster. A precise word should reduce confusion, not simply make the sentence look more polished.
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 condition of being tribal. countable, uncountable
- 2 the beliefs of a tribal society wordnet
- 3 A feeling of identity and loyalty to one's tribe. countable, uncountable
- 4 the state of living together in tribes wordnet
- 5 The tendency among human beings to form socially cohesive groups within which there exists social pressure upon the individual to conform to either common behaviors, customs, habits, mores and/or norms, and which groups exhibit greater or lesser degrees of exclusivism. countable, uncountable
"If we put an end to regionalism and normalize the flow of great energies in the body of Kyrgyzstan, then there will be a very rapid healing of the whole country and people, who have been vegetating in a semi-paralyzed state for many decades due to the grave illness of tribalism and regionalism."
Synonyms
All synonymsExample
"Many people say tribalism is human nature."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "tribalism"?
Common synonyms include: academic concept, allegiance, bias, group behavior, in-group loyalty, loyalty.
How do you use "tribalism" in a sentence?
Many people say tribalism is human nature.
How do you pronounce "tribalism"?
Pronounced /ˈtɹaɪ.bə.lɪ.zəm/.
Etymology
From tribal + -ism.