Definition

Adjective: 1. Having or showing a dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries: Characterized by an intense or irrational fear, distrust, or hatred of strangers, foreigners, or anything perceived as foreign or strange.

Usage

The adjective "xenophobic" is used to describe attitudes, sentiments, policies, rhetoric, or actions that are hostile toward outsiders. It is a formal and strong term, often used in political, social, and psychological contexts to criticize discriminatory behavior.

Examples

• The politician's xenophobic speech blamed immigrants for the country's economic problems.
• Laws that unfairly target foreign workers are widely condemned as xenophobic.
• She was shocked by the xenophobic comments she overheard on the bus.
• A truly global society must overcome xenophobic tendencies.

Advanced Usage

• Xenophobic nationalism: A form of nationalism that defines itself in opposition to foreign influences and peoples.
  • The regime promoted a policy of xenophobic nationalism, isolating the country from the international community.
• Institutional xenophobia: When xenophobic attitudes are embedded in the laws, practices, or policies of an organization or state.
  • The report highlighted institutional xenophobia within the hiring process.

Variants and Related Words

• Xenophobia (noun): The fear or hatred of that which is perceived to be foreign or strange.
  • The rise in xenophobia is a concern for community leaders.
• Xenophobe (noun): A person who fears or hates foreigners, people from different cultures, or strangers.
  • He was labeled a xenophobe for his extreme views on immigration.

Synonyms

• Prejudiced: Having preconceived opinions not based on reason or experience.
• Bigoted: Obstinately convinced of the superiority of one's own opinions and prejudiced against those who hold different opinions.
• Chauvinistic: Displaying excessive or prejudiced loyalty or support for one's own group, often with contempt for other groups.
• Nativist: Relating to the policy of protecting the interests of native-born inhabitants against those of immigrants.

Antonyms

• Cosmopolitan: Familiar with and at ease in many different countries and cultures.
• Tolerant: Showing willingness to allow the existence of opinions or behavior one does not necessarily agree with.
• Open-minded: Willing to consider new ideas; unprejudiced.

Adjective

1. suffering from xenophobia; having abnormal fear or hatred of the strange or foreign