noun
Uncommon
activism
AK-tih-vih-zuhm
Activism (noun) means the use of vigorous campaigning to bring about political or social change. Example: “Her activism helped raise awareness of the pollution in the river.”
noun
1
The use of vigorous campaigning to bring about political or social change.
"Her activism helped raise awareness of the pollution in the river."
"Student activism led the university to ban single-use plastic cups on campus."
"Years of local activism finally persuaded the council to build a safer crossing."
How to use activism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTaking organized action — protests, campaigns, petitions — to push for social or political change.
Common pairings
grassroots activism
political activism
environmental activism
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Word forms
- Plural
- activisms
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Her _____ helped raise awareness of the pollution in the river.
Etymology
From active plus the suffix -ism.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for activism
See all rhymes for activism →Frequently asked questions
What does “activism” mean?
The word “activism” means the use of vigorous campaigning to bring about political or social change. In plain terms, taking organized action — protests, campaigns, petitions — to push for social or political change.
How do you pronounce “activism”?
“Activism” is pronounced AK-tih-vih-zuhm (/ˈæk.tɪ.vɪ.zəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “activism” in a sentence?
Here is “activism” used in a sentence: “Her activism helped raise awareness of the pollution in the river.”
What part of speech is “activism”?
“Activism” is a noun.
Is “activism” a common word?
“Activism” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between activism and advocacy?
Advocacy generally means speaking or arguing in support of a cause, often through persuasion or lobbying, while activism implies more vigorous, direct campaigning aimed at actually bringing about political or social change. Activism is usually seen as the more hands-on, action-oriented approach of the two.
Is protesting the same thing as activism?
Protesting is one common method of activism, but activism is the broader term for any vigorous campaigning aimed at social or political change, which can also include organizing, lobbying, or public education. A single protest is just one activity that can fall under activism.
Does activism have to be political, or can it also be social?
It can be either, since the definition covers vigorous campaigning to bring about change in political or social matters, and often both at once.
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