Barbarism-Barbarity | Commonly Confused Words
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Barbarism vs. Barbarity

Barbarism

/ˈbɑːbərɪzəm/
The lack of civilization, culture, or refinement in behavior or customs.

Examples:

The novel highlights linguistic barbarisms of the colonizers.She criticized the architectural barbarism in the city planning.Historians debated the cultural barbarism of ancient rituals.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Barbarity

/bɑːˈbarɪti/
The state of being extremely cruel or uncivilized

Examples:

The dictator was known for his acts of sheer barbarity.Historians exposed the barbarity of ancient battle tactics.The film depicted the barbarity of life in the war-torn region.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Barbarism often refers to the absence of culture or civilization, focusing on the cultural or linguistic aspects.
  • Barbarity usually denotes extreme cruelty or savagery, emphasizing more on the brutal nature of actions.
  • Think of barbarism as outdated language or customs that seem uncivilized, while barbarity relates to inhumane actions.
  • Remember, barbarism is often used to criticize speech or manners, whereas barbarity often critiques vicious acts.
  • Use barbarity when expressing horror over cruel deeds, and barbarism when highlighting crude language or behavior.
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