WordGarden.iolocalism
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈəʊkəlˌɪzəm/
US
- /ˈloʊkəˌlɪzəm/noun
Meanings
Noun
the belief or practice of favoring local communities, businesses, or decision-making over wider centralized systems
a local word, expression, or other feature characteristic of a particular place
Beyond the definition
Localism is more than just buying from the farmers' market (though that's part of it!). It's a growing emphasis on strengthening communities at a local level—economically, culturally, and politically. Think about supporting local businesses instead of big chains, celebrating unique regional traditions, or even advocating for policies that give more power to local governments.
It can be a reaction against globalization, where things become increasingly standardized and disconnected from their origins. A town proud of its annual apple festival is embracing localism. Someone who chooses to buy furniture made by a craftsman down the street instead of ordering online is practicing localism. It's about valuing what's unique and close to home.
Localism refers to a strong preference for, or emphasis on, local places, people, culture, products, and governance. It's a multifaceted concept that can manifest in various ways—from economic choices to political ideologies.
Historically, localism often arose as a response to centralized power structures. In the past, it meant resisting control from distant empires or national governments, prioritizing self-sufficiency within smaller communities. Today, it frequently appears as a counterpoint to globalization and homogenization. People drawn to localism might actively seek out locally sourced food, support independent businesses over large corporations, and participate in community events that celebrate regional traditions.
However, "localism" isn't always positive. It can sometimes lead to exclusionary attitudes or resistance to outside ideas. In political contexts, it can appear as a desire for greater local control over issues like zoning, education, or development, which can sometimes conflict with broader national goals.
The term can also be used in fields like linguistics and anthropology to talk about features, customs, or knowledge tied closely to a particular place. A linguist studying regional accents, for example, may be studying a form of local identity expressed through language.
So, whether it's a conscious choice to support your neighborhood bakery or a political movement advocating for greater community autonomy, localism is about valuing the distinct character of places and fostering connections within them—with both positive and potentially complex implications.
Examples
- 1
Regional words
"Bubbler" is a localism in parts of the northern United States.
- 2
Dialogue
The novel keeps a few localisms in the dialogue so the characters sound rooted in their town.
- 3
Restaurant menus
Tourists sometimes miss the localisms on restaurant menus, even when the dishes are simple.
- 4
Local pride
The council's campaign mixed environmental concerns with a strong sense of localism.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Local government
The new law was presented as localism, giving neighborhoods more say over planning decisions.
See also
Similar
- regionalism
- local preference
Shades of meaning
- parochialism
- community control
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- economic localism
- political localism
- a strain of localism
Word family
- localist
- localistic
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- localismnoun