noun

isolationism

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Isolationism (noun) means a policy of a country or group avoiding involvement with other countries or groups. Example: “The senator was criticised for pushing a foreign policy rooted in isolationism.”

noun

A policy of a country or group avoiding involvement with other countries or groups.

"The senator was criticised for pushing a foreign policy rooted in isolationism."

"Many historians see the interwar years as a period of American isolationism."

"Some economists warn that isolationism can leave a country without useful allies."

How to use isolationism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishChoosing to stay out of other countries' business rather than getting involved.

When to use it

This is a formal word, mostly found in political, historical and news writing rather than everyday speech.

Memory tip

Remember the related word isolationist, which describes a person or policy that supports isolationism.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

a policy of isolationism rising isolationism isolationism and foreign policy accused of isolationism

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “isolationism” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The senator was criticised for pushing a foreign policy rooted in _____.

Etymology

The word is built from isolation with the suffix -ism added to it, turning the idea of standing apart into the name of a policy or stance.

Origin: English

Rhymes for isolationism

hedonism antagonism anachronism creationism expressionism impressionism

See all rhymes for isolationism →

Frequently asked questions

What does isolationism mean?

It means a deliberate policy of a country or group staying out of involvement with others.

Is isolationism a political term?

Yes, it is most often used to describe a government's foreign policy stance.

What's the difference between isolationism and isolation?

Isolation describes the general state of being separate, while isolationism is specifically the policy of choosing that separation.

What is the meaning of isolationism?

"isolationism" (noun) means a policy of a country or group avoiding involvement with other countries or groups.