Exoticism

usgb/ɪɡˈzɑːtɪsɪzəm/
noun

A quality that makes something seem interesting or exciting because it is from a foreign country.

The restaurant is known for its exoticism, offering dishes from various countries around the world.
Visual representation of "exoticism" - A quality that makes something seem interesting or exciting because it is from a foreign country

Often appears as...

  • culture of exoticism
  • exoticism in art
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "exoticism"
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Cultural Fascination

Exoticism often expresses a fascination with cultures different from one’s own.

Illustration for Cultural Fascination
His travel stories were filled with exoticism, making the foreign landscapes come alive.
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Romanticizing Foreign

Exoticism can mistakenly romanticize foreign cultures as mysterious and inherently better.

Illustration for Romanticizing Foreign
Her poetry used exoticism to idealize the distant lands she had never visited.
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Potential Offense

Using exoticism can sometimes offend if it stereotypes or misrepresents other cultures.

Illustration for Potential Offense
The novel faced criticism for its exoticism that bordered on cultural appropriation.
Visual representation of the word "Exoticism"

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