What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
extremism
Example
The government is cracking down on extremism in the country. [extremism: noun]
Example
Some extremist groups resort to violence to achieve their goals. [extremist: adjective]
fanaticism
Example
His fanaticism for his favorite sports team knows no bounds. [fanaticism: noun]
Example
Some people's religious fanaticism can lead to intolerance and discrimination. [fanatic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Extremism is more commonly used than fanaticism in everyday language, especially in the context of politics and social issues. Fanaticism is less common and is often used in a more specific or limited context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between extremism and fanaticism?
Both extremism and fanaticism are associated with negative connotations and are typically used in informal or negative contexts. However, extremism can be used in more formal contexts, such as academic or political discussions, while fanaticism is more commonly used in informal conversations or personal opinions.
