counter-populism
|coun-ter-pop-u-lism|
🇺🇸
/ˌkaʊn.tɚˈpɑp.jə.lɪ.zəm/
🇬🇧
/ˌkaʊn.təˈpɒp.jə.lɪ.zəm/
opposition to populism
Etymology
'counter-populism' is a modern English compound formed from the prefix 'counter-' and the noun 'populism.' 'Counter-' ultimately derives from Latin 'contra' meaning 'against,' and 'populism' derives from Latin 'populus' meaning 'people' with the suffix '-ism' denoting a doctrine or movement.
'counter-' entered English via Old French 'contre' and Middle English forms (e.g. 'contre'/'countre'), evolving into the Modern English prefix 'counter-.' 'Populism' is a relatively recent formation (late 19th to early 20th century) from Latin 'populus' through French 'populisme' and English '-ism' suffix; the compound 'counter-populism' arose in modern political discourse in the 20th–21st century to label opposition to populist movements.
Literally it means 'against populism.' Over time it has come to denote not only opposition in principle but organized policies, rhetoric, or movements aimed at neutralizing or replacing populist appeals.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a political stance, ideology, or movement that opposes populism and its leaders.
Counter-populism among mainstream parties grew as a reaction to rising populist movements.
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Noun 2
policies and practical measures designed to neutralize or reduce the appeal of populist demands.
The administration adopted a program of targeted welfare reforms as part of its counter-populism strategy.
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Noun 3
rhetorical or communicative strategies that depict populism as dangerous, irresponsible, or ill-informed.
Much of the campaign's counter-populism relied on expert testimonies and data to challenge populist claims.
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Last updated: 2025/11/15 19:16