aggrandisement
Definition
Noun: 1. The act of making something greater in power, wealth, importance, or size: Aggrandisement refers to the process of increasing the scope, prestige, or influence of a person, institution, or concept, often for self-serving purposes.
Usage
The word "aggrandisement" is a formal term, often used in political, historical, or critical contexts to describe the deliberate expansion of power or status. It frequently carries a negative connotation, implying that the increase is sought or achieved in a selfish, excessive, or unjustified manner.
Examples
- The emperor's policies were focused on the aggrandisement of his own authority at the expense of the senate's power.
- Historians criticized the regime for its territorial aggrandisement through aggressive wars.
- The charity was accused of being a tool for the founder's personal aggrandisement rather than a genuine philanthropic effort.
Advanced Usage
- Self-aggrandisement: This is a very common collocation. It specifically refers to the act of enhancing one's own power, wealth, or reputation, and is almost always used pejoratively.
- His speech was an exercise in self-aggrandisement, focusing solely on his own achievements.
Variants and Related Words
- Aggrandizement: This is the standard spelling in American English. "Aggrandisement" is the standard spelling in British English. Both have identical meanings and usage.
- Aggrandise (verb) / Aggrandize (verb): To increase the power, status, or wealth of.
- He sought to aggrandize his family's name through strategic marriages.
Synonyms
- Enhancement: The act of improving the quality, value, or extent of something. (Can be more neutral than "aggrandisement".)
- Exaltation: The action of elevating someone in rank, power, or character. (Often has a more positive or honorific connotation.)
- Elevation: The act of raising to a higher position or status. (Can be neutral.)
- Amplification: The action of enlarging upon or adding detail to a story or statement. (Often used in the context of rhetoric or information.)
Antonyms
- Diminishment: The act of making something smaller or less important.
- Humiliation: The action of making someone feel ashamed and foolish by injuring their dignity and pride.
- Reduction: The action of making something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size.
Noun
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the act of increasing the wealth or prestige or power or scope of something
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the aggrandizement of the king
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his elevation to cardinal
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