What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ethnocentric
Example
His ethnocentric views made it difficult for him to appreciate the customs of other cultures. [ethnocentric: adjective]
Example
The company's ethnocentric policies favored employees from certain ethnic backgrounds. [ethnocentric: adjective]
racist
Example
He was accused of making racist comments towards his coworkers. [racist: adjective]
Example
The organization was criticized for its lack of diversity and racist hiring practices. [racist: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Racist is a more commonly used term than ethnocentric in everyday language, especially in discussions of social justice and equality. Ethnocentric is a more specialized term used primarily in academic or cultural contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ethnocentric and racist?
Both ethnocentric and racist are formal terms used in serious discussions of culture, identity, and discrimination. However, racist is generally considered more offensive and emotionally charged than ethnocentric.
