Cult of Personality
Definition:
A "cult of personality" is when a person, usually a leader or public figure, is admired and followed by many people to an extreme degree. This admiration often comes from the way the person presents themselves, their image, and their ability to inspire or charm others, rather than their actual accomplishments or qualities.
Usage Instructions:
You can use the term "cult of personality" when discussing political leaders, celebrities, or anyone who has a strong and sometimes exaggerated following. It often has a negative connotation, suggesting that the admiration is based more on image than on substance.
Example Sentence:
"The president built a cult of personality around himself, with many people believing he could do no wrong."
Advanced Usage:
In political science, the term is often used to describe leaders who use propaganda and media to create a larger-than-life image. It can also refer to how followers may ignore negative aspects of the person's behavior or policies because of their admiration.
Word Variants:
- Cult (noun): A group of people with a shared belief or practice, often seen as unorthodox or extreme. - Personality (noun): The combination of characteristics or qualities that form an individual's distinctive character.
Different Meanings:
While "cult" in other contexts can refer to a religious group, "cult of personality" specifically focuses on the admiration and devotion to a person, rather than a belief system.
Synonyms:
- Personality cult - Hero worship - Idolatry
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly correlate with "cult of personality," but you might come across phrases like "to idolize someone," which conveys a similar meaning of intense admiration.
Summary:
The term "cult of personality" describes a situation where a person is admired to an extreme extent, often overshadowing their actual abilities or actions.