ethnic minority
Noun: A distinct group within a larger population that shares a common national, cultural, racial, religious, or linguistic heritage which differs from that of the majority population. The term emphasizes the group's distinct identity and often their non-dominant status within a society or nation-state.
The term is used to describe and categorize groups based on their shared cultural or national identity, typically in sociological, political, and demographic contexts. It is a formal term. - It functions as a countable noun (e.g., an ethnic minority, ethnic minorities). - It is often discussed in relation to concepts like rights, representation, integration, and discrimination.
- The country's constitution includes specific protections for ethnic minorities.
- She conducted research on the educational challenges faced by an ethnic minority in the region.
- Government policies aim to promote the languages and cultures of various ethnic minorities.
- "ethnic minority group/community": A more specific phrasing emphasizing the communal aspect.
- The festival celebrates the traditions of the local ethnic minority community.
- In academic and policy writing, the term is often analyzed within frameworks of multiculturalism, minority rights, and social cohesion.
- Minority group: A broader term that can include groups defined by factors other than ethnicity (e.g., religious, sexual minorities).
- Indigenous people: Refers to ethnic groups native to a region, often preceding later settlers. While all indigenous groups can be ethnic minorities, not all ethnic minorities are indigenous.
- Ethnicity (n): The fact or state of belonging to a social group that has a common national or cultural tradition.
- Cultural minority
- National minority (used in some specific international contexts)
The core meaning resides in the combination of ethnic (pertaining to shared culture, nationality, etc.) and minority (the smaller number or part). It is important to note: - The term is defined in relation to a specific geographical and political context (e.g., the Han Chinese are the majority in China but an ethnic minority in other countries). - Membership is typically based on self-identification and group acceptance, not solely on biological or genetic criteria.
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a group that has different national or cultural traditions from the majority of the population
