noun · academic
individualism
/ˌɪndɪˈvɪdʒuəlɪzəm/ind·i·VID·u·al·ism
The belief or way of life that emphasizes individual freedom and independence over collective control.
Examples
“Individualism is often praised in entrepreneurial cultures.”
“Some argue that extreme individualism can harm community cohesion.”
“In Task 2 you could discuss whether individualism or collectivism is better for society.”
Band 8 sentence
“Western education systems tend to cultivate individualism by encouraging critical thinking and personal initiative.”
Collocations
- culture of individualism
- rise of individualism
- individualistic values
Word family
Common mistakes
an individualism→individualism
individualism values→individualistic values
Say it for a higher band
5self-reliance→6personal freedom→7+individualism
Synonyms
self-reliance
Easily confused
collectivism
“Collectivism emphasizes community goals and social harmony over individual desires.”
Related words
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In -ism
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