balkanization Definition
the process of dividing a region or country into smaller, often mutually hostile, units.
Using balkanization: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "balkanization" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The country's balkanization led to years of civil war.
Example
The company's balkanization into smaller departments made communication difficult.
Example
The region's balkanization was caused by centuries of ethnic and religious tensions.
balkanization Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for balkanization
Phrases with balkanization
the process of dividing a society into separate cultural groups that have little or no interaction with each other
Example
The rise of social media has contributed to the cultural balkanization of our society.
the process of dividing a market into smaller, isolated units that are not integrated with each other
Example
The economic balkanization of Europe could lead to increased competition and decreased cooperation.
the process of dividing a political system into smaller, often opposing, factions that are unable to work together effectively
Example
The political balkanization of the country has made it difficult to pass any meaningful legislation.
Origins of balkanization
from the Balkans, a region in southeastern Europe that was historically characterized by ethnic and political fragmentation
Summary: balkanization in Brief
The term 'balkanization' [ˌbɔːlkənaɪˈzeɪʃən] refers to the process of dividing a region or country into smaller, often hostile, units. It can be caused by ethnic, religious, or political tensions and can lead to civil war or decreased cooperation. Examples include 'The country's balkanization led to years of civil war' and 'The region's balkanization was caused by centuries of ethnic and religious tensions.' The term extends into phrases like 'cultural balkanization,' 'economic balkanization,' and 'political balkanization,' denoting division in specific areas.
