noun
C2
Proficient
individualism
Individualism (noun) means the tendency to think and act independently rather than following the group. Example: “His individualism showed in his refusal to wear the team uniform.”
noun
1
The tendency to think and act independently rather than following the group.
"His individualism showed in his refusal to wear the team uniform."
2
A political or social belief that values personal independence and self-reliance over control by the state or group.
"American culture is often said to prize individualism over collective effort."
"Republicans and Democrats interpret individualism differently, and those divides are more pronounced than ever in our deeply polarized political climate."
— Scottie Andrew, America’s response to the coronavirus is the most American thing ever (2020)
How to use individualism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPutting personal independence and self-reliance ahead of the group.
Common pairings
rugged individualism
a culture of individualism
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Word forms
- Plural
- individualisms
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His _____ showed in his refusal to wear the team uniform.
Etymology
Borrowed from French individualisme, built from individual plus -ism.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for individualism
realism
fatalism
idealism
globalism
socialism
vandalism
federalism
radicalism
capitalism
liberalism
surrealism
journalism
See all rhymes for individualism →
Frequently asked questions
What does “individualism” mean?
The word “individualism” means the tendency to think and act independently rather than following the group. In plain terms, putting personal independence and self-reliance ahead of the group.
How do you use “individualism” in a sentence?
Here is “individualism” used in a sentence: “His individualism showed in his refusal to wear the team uniform.”
What is another word for “individualism”?
Words with a similar meaning to “individualism” include solipsism.
What is the opposite of “individualism”?
The opposite of “individualism” — its antonyms — are collectivism and statism.
What part of speech is “individualism”?
“Individualism” is a noun.
Where does the word “individualism” come from?
The word “individualism” comes from French. Borrowed from French individualisme, built from individual plus -ism.
How many meanings does “individualism” have?
“Individualism” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the tendency to think and act independently rather than following the group.
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