Imperialism

[/ɪmˈpɪərɪəlɪzəm/]
nounmasculinepl: imperialisms
imperialismo
1. The policy or practice of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means
British imperialism shaped the political landscape of India for centuries.
O imperialismo britânico moldou a paisagem política da Índia por séculos.
2. A system or ideology that advocates for imperial expansion and domination
The rise of imperialism in the 19th century led to the colonization of Africa.
A ascensão do imperialismo no século XIX levou à colonização da África.
3. The dominance of one nation or culture over others through economic, political, or cultural pressure
Some critics argue that cultural imperialism is perpetuated through Hollywood films.
Alguns críticos argumentam que o imperialismo cultural é perpetuado através de filmes de Hollywood.
In Brazil, 'imperialismo' is frequently discussed in historical and political contexts, particularly regarding Portuguese colonial history and critiques of American economic and cultural influence. In the United States, the term is central to debates about foreign policy, with some viewing American global influence as a form of imperialism. The word carries significant weight in academic discussions of colonialism, postcolonial studies, and international relations in both countries.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
expansionismcolonialismempire-buildinghegemonydomination
Antonyms / Antônimos
isolationismindependenceautonomyself-determinationnon-interventionism

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
imperialismo
Standard term used in academic and political discourse
Portugal
imperialismo
Standard term; also used historically to discuss Portuguese imperial expansion
São Paulo
imperialismo
Common in academic and journalistic contexts
Rio de Janeiro
imperialismo
Used consistently in educational and political discussions

Related Words

imperialimperialistempirecolonialismhegemonysovereigntyexpansiondominion

Related Idioms & Phrases

cultural imperialism
economic imperialism
American imperialism
neo-imperialism
imperialism of free trade
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