lebensraum

Thân thiện

A nation sought new lebensraum for its growing population.

Definition

Noun: 1. Territory believed necessary for a nation's natural development, especially for expansion: The term refers to the perceived need for additional living space or territory for a nation, often used historically in the context of expansionist policies.

Usage Examples

• The aggressive regime used the concept of lebensraum to justify its invasion of neighboring countries.
• Historical discussions of imperialism sometimes involve the idea of a nation seeking lebensraum for its growing population.

Advanced Usage

• The term is most strongly associated with the geopolitical ideology of Nazi Germany, which used it to legitimize territorial conquest in Eastern Europe.
• In modern academic discourse, it is used critically to describe expansionist doctrines or as a historical concept, not as a legitimate political goal.

Variants and Related Words

• Living Space: A direct English translation and a more neutral term for the same general concept, without the specific historical connotations.
• Expansionism: (Noun) A policy or practice of territorial or economic expansion.

Synonyms

• Elbow Room: (Informal) Adequate space for movement or activity.
• Territorial Expansion: The act of acquiring more territory.

Notes on Meaning

This word carries significant historical weight due to its use as a central justification for aggressive warfare and atrocities in the 20th century. Its use in contemporary English is almost exclusively historical, analytical, or critical.

Học thuật

Noun

1. space sought for occupation by a nation whose population is expanding

Từ đồng nghĩa

• living space