chauvinistic - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
chauvinistic Word Meanings
- having an excessive or prejudiced loyalty or support for one's own group.
- believing in the superiority of one's own gender or nationality.
chauvinistic Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
chauvinistic Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌʃəʊ.vɪˈnɪs.tɪk/
US
/ˌʃoʊ.vəˈnɪs.tɪk/
chauvinistic Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'Chauvin' (a jingoist) + '-istic' (suffix forming adjectives). Historical origin: from French 'chauvin', referring to a soldier with excessive patriotism, derived from a character in a play by Nicolas Chauvin; entered English in the 19th century. Memory image: Picture a soldier waving a flag, blind to others, shouting 'my country is the best!'
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Chauvinistic describes an attitude of excessive or prejudiced loyalty to the group one belongs to, often extending to a belief in its superiority. It can apply to nationality, gender, ethnicity, or political faction, and it tends to dismiss or belittle outsiders. In many contexts the word signals an aggressive, rosy view that ignores evidence, nuance, or equal rights. A chauvinistic stance may manifest as stereotyping, refusal to consider others' perspectives, or defending one's group at all costs. The term can be used critically to condemn patriotism that becomes aggressive or exclusionary, and it often carries moral or political critique rather than a neutral description.
Usage Reminders
- - Use sparingly; it is a strong, negative judgment about bias toward a group.
- - Pair with nouns like 'patriotism' or 'attitude' rather than vague sentiment.
- - Beware that it can refer to any group, not just national ones.
- - Check tone: it should critique bias, not describe pride in a group.
- - Learn common collocations like 'chauvinistic nationalism' or 'chauvinistic attitudes'.
Common Misconceptions
- It only applies to men; actually it can describe bias toward any group.
- It means patriotism in general; it implies hostility or prejudice, not simple pride.
- It is the same as racist or sexist; it targets superiority, not necessarily a single trait.
- It is neutral; it carries a strong critical tone and judgment.
- Using it about yourself is okay; it usually condemns others' attitudes, not self-reflection.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker that English often flags bias with adjectives like chauvinistic, which carry stronger negative force than neutral pride terms; learners should watch tone, collocations, and whether the context condemns the attitude.
Learning Tips
- Study common collocations like chauvinistic nationalism and chauvinistic attitudes.
- Compare with neutral terms such as patriotic or loyal to spot nuance.
- Look for verbs that show action (defend, dismiss, ignore).
- Note the subject groups (nationality, gender, ethnicity) to avoid broad generalizations.
- Practice with map-based or historical contexts to see when criticism is implied.
- Use media examples to hear how speakers convey condemnation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'chauvinistic'?
A.Excessively patriotic or nationalistic
B.An enthusiastic supporter of a specific type of diet
C.Having a strong preference for one's own group, often to the exclusion of others
D.Fond of gardening and planting trees
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'chauvinistic' correctly?
A.Her chauvinistic attitude made it difficult for her to work with others.
B.The chauvinistic dog barked loudly at every passerby.
C.He was chauvinistic when he chose chocolate over vanilla.
D.The team played chauvinistic football, winning all their matches.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'chauvinistic'?
A.Indifferent
B.Tolerant
C.Patriotic
D.Oblivious
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'chauvinistic'?
A.Inclusive
B.Narrow-minded
C.Exclusive
D.Self-centered
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might display chauvinistic behavior?
A.A person frequently supports their country's teams over others.
B.An individual enjoys watching sports games and has fun with friends.
C.Someone believes that a specific gender should always earn less than others in the workplace.
D.Someone enjoys reading poetry from various cultures.
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