Definition

Proper noun: 1. The political and economic policies associated with Margaret Thatcher, British Prime Minister from 1979 to 1990: Thatcherism refers to a specific ideology emphasizing free-market capitalism, deregulation, privatization of state-owned industries, reduced power of trade unions, and a belief in individual responsibility and monetarism.

Usage

• Thatcherism is used as an uncountable noun to describe the collective principles and policies of a political era.
• It is often discussed in historical, political, and economic contexts.

Examples

• The privatization of major utilities was a cornerstone of Thatcherism.
• Many debates about the modern economy still reference the legacy of Thatcherism.
• His political views were heavily influenced by Thatcherism.

Advanced Usage

• "The spirit of Thatcherism": Used to describe the enduring influence or application of its core principles beyond the 1980s.
  • Even today, one can see the spirit of Thatcherism in certain fiscal policies.
• "A critique of Thatcherism": A common phrase in academic and political discourse analyzing its effects.
  • The book provides a sharp critique of Thatcherism and its social impact.

Variants and Related Words

• Thatcherite (noun/adjective): A supporter of Thatcherism, or relating to Thatcherism.
  • He was a staunch Thatcherite. (noun)
  • Her Thatcherite views on the economy were well-known. (adjective)

Synonyms

• Free-market conservatism
• Monetarism (specifically relating to its economic policy)
• Neoliberalism (in a broader, international context)

Related Phrases

• "The Thatcher era": The period during which Margaret Thatcher was Prime Minister, synonymous with the implementation of Thatcherism.
  • The social changes during the Thatcher era were profound.
• "Post-Thatcherism": Referring to the period or political landscape after the dominance of Thatcherite policies.
  • The party struggled to define itself in the post-Thatcherism landscape.

Noun

1. (England) the political policy of Margaret Thatcher