hegemonic

USAGE SUMMARY

"hegemonic" is a perfectly acceptable word in written English.
It is used to describe a powerful group of people or countries that exercise a dominating authority or control over a region or population. For example: The United States has had a hegemonic presence in the Middle East since 2001.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Letters are welcome via e-mail to [email protected] powers that beSIR – Your briefing on American power assumes that military power is the sole hegemonic factor in the world ("The hobbled hegemon", June 30th).

The Economist

By vanquishing Mr Duhalde, the president won unquestioned control over the hegemonic Peronist party—as the rally on May 25th was intended to show.

The Economist

Far from creating a hegemonic party, Mr Bush leaves the Republicans in the worst state they have been in for decades; riven by divisions, confused about their identity and facing Armageddon at the ballot box.

The Economist

In that case, though, America is not going to be the hegemonic power about which he also worries so much.American beautyBeing a broad-minded sort of fellow, Mr Hutton concedes that not everything in America is bad.

The Economist

United, strong and rich, Germany is Europe's hegemonic power.

The Economist

Any hegemonic aspirations and nefarious motives of countries contributing UN troops are more likely to be kept in check.

The Economist

Through its dogged resistance to France's hegemonic ambitions in the preceding 20 years, Britain helped create the conditions for the security system known as the Concert of Europe, established in 1815.

The Economist

The sense of hegemonic responsibility that led America to create organisations like the IMF and World Bank in 1944, and to nurture them in subsequent decades, is eroding fast.

The Economist

Within a week of the assault, which led to the closure of the embassy and the expulsion of the entire Iranian mission in London, the Iranian action began to look like a costly mistake.At the beginning of the diplomatic crisis, the speaker of the parliament in Tehran railed against Britain's "hegemonic" policies.

The Economist

After generations of hegemonic rule, the centrist PRI is still the country's strongest party.

The Economist

Something worth noting is that for a hegemonic power suffering from slow-but-steady (but very slow) relative decline, wasting money on national security expenditures actually erodes our hegemony.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hegemonic" when you specifically want to emphasize the dominance of one entity over others, particularly in political, cultural, or social contexts. Avoid using it as a generic synonym for "dominant" if the nuances of power dynamics are not relevant.

Common error

Avoid using "hegemonic" in casual conversations or informal writing. It is a formal term that sounds out of place in everyday contexts. Instead, opt for simpler words like "dominant" or "leading".

Linguistic Context

The adjective "hegemonic" primarily functions to describe something as dominant or having a leading influence, often in a political, cultural, or economic context. Ludwig AI indicates that it is a perfectly acceptable word in written English and is used to describe a dominating authority or control. The examples confirm this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hegemonic" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective signifying dominance and control, particularly in political, cultural, and economic contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English. It's most commonly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific writings, indicating a formal register. When using "hegemonic", consider synonyms like "dominant" or "pre-eminent" if a less formal tone is desired, and ensure the context warrants its specific emphasis on power dynamics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dominant

Single-word adjective replacing "hegemonic", focusing on the aspect of dominance.

pre-eminent

Focuses on superiority and being above others.

supreme

Highlights ultimate authority and power.

ruling

Implies governance and control.

ascendant

Suggests a rise to power and influence.

controlling

Emphasizes the act of maintaining power and influence.

prevailing

Indicates widespread acceptance and influence.

paramount

Stresses the utmost importance and influence.

chief

Highlights a leading or principal position.

commanding

Suggests a position of authority and control.

FAQs

How is "hegemonic" typically used in a sentence?

The word "hegemonic" is used as an adjective to describe something that is dominant or controlling, especially the political, economic, or military domination of one state over others. For example, "The United States has been criticized for its "hegemonic influence" in global affairs".

What are some synonyms for "hegemonic"?

Alternatives to "hegemonic" include "dominant", "pre-eminent", "supreme", or "ruling". The best choice depends on the specific context in which you're using the word.

When is it appropriate to use "hegemonic" instead of "dominant"?

"Hegemonic" is more appropriate when referring to a system where one entity exerts considerable political, economic, or cultural influence, often to the point of shaping the norms and behaviors of others. "Dominant" is a more general term for having control or power. Thus, "hegemonic power" often implies a more comprehensive and systemic influence than simply being dominant.

What does "hegemonic masculinity" refer to?

"Hegemonic masculinity" refers to a concept in gender studies describing the culturally idealized form of masculinity that legitimizes male dominance in society. It's often associated with traits like strength, independence, and emotional stoicism. You can find this concept in action with an "hegemonic masculinity example".