pluralism

What is another word for pluralism? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — A social system in which smaller groups within a wider society are free to keep their own distinct cultural identities.

We haven't recorded synonyms for pluralism yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use pluralism

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

cultural pluralism political pluralism religious pluralism embrace pluralism a system of pluralism

Pluralism is a formal word, common in political, sociological and academic writing rather than everyday conversation.

Etymology

Pluralism was formed within English itself, by attaching the suffix -ism, which turns a word into the name of a belief, system or condition, onto plural. It therefore literally names the state or quality of being plural.

Full origin of pluralism →

Frequently asked questions

What does pluralism mean in society?

It describes a society in which different groups are able to keep their own cultural identities rather than being absorbed into one dominant culture.

What is political pluralism?

It is the belief that political power should be spread across several competing groups or parties instead of being concentrated in one place.

Is pluralism the same as diversity?

They overlap but are not identical: diversity describes the presence of different groups, while pluralism describes a system that actively lets those groups keep their distinct identities and compete or coexist.

Nearby words

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