French word

individualisme

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛ̃dividɥalizm/

Meaning

  • masculine nounindividualism

Example

L'individualisme est courant dans les grandes villes.

Individualism is common in large cities.

Illustration for individualisme (individualism)

More examples

En entreprise, l'individualisme peut compliquer le travail d'équipe.

In the workplace, individualism can complicate teamwork.

Core concept

One person choosing a path while a surrounding group expects another.

Common phrases

  • l'individualisme moderne

    modern individualism

  • tendance à l'individualisme

    tendency toward individualism

Similar words

liberté: Freedom from restrictions on personal or collective action and choice.
autonomie: The capacity to decide for oneself and manage one's own affairs.
égoïsme: Putting personal wants or interests first while disregarding other people's feelings or needs.
indépendance: The condition of existing independently from other people, countries, or organizations.

Definition in French

Attitude ou principe valorisant la liberté et les choix de l'individu plutôt que les exigences du groupe.

Word origin

The French noun individualisme is formed from individual with the suffix -isme, while individual ultimately comes from Latin individuus, meaning 'indivisible'.

Usage tips

  • Individualisme does not by itself mean selfishness; égoïsme specifically refers to putting personal interest first.

Opposites

  • collectivismecollectivismnoun
  • altruismealtruismnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word