otherness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "otherness" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe the quality or state of being different or distinct from a norm or majority. An example: "The artist's work explores themes of otherness and identity." Alternative expressions include "difference" and "distinctiveness."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Two other sources of "otherness" besides bodiliness underlie the limitations on perceptual knowledge.

SEP

That means that a fact is only a fact if there is something outside of it, another fact, another time, a place to view it from; it doesn't count as a fact unless it can impact on some other site, unless it relates to some otherness.

SEP

The capital-O Other refers to two additional types of otherness corresponding to the registers of the Symbolic and the Real.

SEP

Feminists, on the other hand, having experienced the position of marginalized otherness as women, are more inclined to "expose the controlling force exercised by those who have the power to construct the Other as a subject of domination" (Seigfried 1996, 267).

SEP

Unlike the Hegelian Other, however, women are unable to identify the origin of their otherness.

SEP

For all their modernity, these urban spaces are designed almost like vast prison camps.The banlieue is the most literal representation of "otherness" – the otherness of exclusion, of the repressed, of the fearful and despised – all kept physically and culturally away from the mainstream of French "civilisation".

The Guardian

With this deft move, the author immediately establishes the "otherness" of these immigrants, showing you how unprepared they are for the chilly English welcome.

The Guardian - Books

Insects have this great otherness you wouldn't get even with amphibians.

The Guardian - Film

In many ways, it was an idyllic existence, and yet my "otherness" just wouldn't go away.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's about as tense as their exchanges ever get, even if what's at stake is nothing less profound than the very nature of friendship and its effect on the perilous dictates of passion.The language strains for theatrical credibility, with phrases like "the hopeless longing for otherness" hanging, well, hopelessly in the air.

The Economist

Even many new Spanish-speaking arrivals in America shunned the tradition, which seemed too costly and too loud a statement of their Latin otherness.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "otherness" when you want to emphasize the quality or state of being different, especially in discussions of identity, culture, or philosophy. It's more nuanced than simply stating 'difference'.

Common error

Avoid using "otherness" when you simply mean 'difference'. "Otherness" carries a stronger connotation of alienation or marginalization, not just a neutral variation. If the context doesn't involve a sense of being an outsider or distinct, a simpler term like "difference" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "otherness" is as a noun. It refers to the quality or state of being different or distinct. Ludwig examples demonstrate its usage in philosophical and sociological contexts to describe the experience of marginalization and difference.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "otherness" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun that signifies the state of being different. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide acceptance, particularly within academic and news contexts. Its primary function involves describing and analyzing social dynamics related to identity and difference. While the term may be useful in various fields, it's crucial to differentiate it from simple "difference". To communicate effectively using the term, it's recommended to use it when you want to emphasize the quality or state of being different, especially in discussions of identity, culture, or philosophy. It's more nuanced than simply stating 'difference'.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

state of being different

Focuses on the condition of dissimilarity rather than the abstract quality.

quality of being alien

Emphasizes the foreign or unfamiliar aspect of being different.

distinctive character

Highlights the unique attributes that set something apart.

condition of marginalization

Specifically addresses the experience of being pushed to the edge of society.

sense of exclusion

Focuses on the feeling of being left out or separated.

feeling of alienation

Highlights the emotional experience of estrangement.

nonconformity

Highlights the act of not fitting in with established norms.

deviation from the norm

Emphasizes the departure from what is considered standard or typical.

outsider status

Focuses on the position of not belonging to a particular group or community.

dissimilarity

Highlights the lack of resemblance or similarity.

FAQs

How is "otherness" typically used in academic writing?

"Otherness" is often used in academic contexts to discuss the social construction of difference, particularly in relation to marginalized groups. It explores how dominant cultures define and treat those who are perceived as different.

What are some synonyms for "otherness" that I can use in my writing?

Depending on the context, you could use synonyms such as "difference", "distinctiveness", "alterity", "alienation", or "marginalization". Choose the word that best captures the specific nuance you intend to convey.

How does the concept of "otherness" relate to identity?

"Otherness" plays a significant role in shaping identity. Individuals often define themselves in relation to those they perceive as different, creating a sense of 'us' versus 'them'. This process can lead to both inclusion and exclusion.

Is it appropriate to use "otherness" in everyday conversation?

While "otherness" is a valid word, it might sound overly formal or academic in casual conversation. In everyday contexts, simpler terms like "difference" or "uniqueness" are often more suitable. However, in some conversations with people who are well educated, "otherness" might be used to introduce an interesting term.