Word
xenophobia
Meanings
Fear or hatred of foreigners or people from different countries or cultures.
A social attitude that treats outsiders as a threat and supports unfair exclusion or discrimination.
Definition
Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
Xenophobia is an intense fear, dislike, or distrust of foreigners or people seen as “outsiders.” It often leads to prejudice, discrimination, or hostility toward immigrants or minority groups. People may show xenophobia through stereotypes, exclusion, or support for unfair policies.
Examples
- The campaign tried to appeal to voters by stirring up xenophobia.
- Xenophobia can lead to discrimination in housing and employment.
- Teachers addressed xenophobia by encouraging students to learn about other cultures.
- The report warned that economic anxiety can fuel xenophobia.
- Community leaders spoke out against xenophobia after the incident.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse xenophobia with “fear of strangers” in general, but it specifically refers to fear or dislike of foreigners or outsiders from other cultures.
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