balkanize Definition
- 1to divide a region or group into smaller, often hostile units
- 2to break up (a country, territory, or group) into smaller and often hostile units
Using balkanize: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "balkanize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The country was balkanized into several smaller states after the war.
Example
The company's management structure was balkanized, with each department working independently.
Example
The political party was in danger of being balkanized by internal conflicts.
balkanize Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with balkanize
the decentralization of power from a central authority to regional or local authorities
Example
The balkanization of power can lead to more efficient governance and better representation of local interests.
the fragmentation of media sources and audiences, often resulting in the formation of echo chambers and the spread of misinformation
Example
The balkanization of media has made it difficult for people to agree on basic facts and has contributed to the polarization of society.
the fragmentation of healthcare systems and services, often resulting in unequal access to care and inefficient use of resources
Example
The balkanization of healthcare has led to disparities in health outcomes and higher costs for patients and providers.
Origins of balkanize
from Balkan Peninsula, which was historically divided and politically unstable
Summary: balkanize in Brief
The verb 'balkanize' [ˈbɔːlkənaɪz] means to divide a region or group into smaller, often hostile units. It is often used to describe the fragmentation of countries, organizations, or groups due to internal conflicts or external pressures. Examples include 'The country was balkanized into several smaller states after the war.' and 'The company's management structure was balkanized, with each department working independently.' The term extends into phrases like 'balkanization of power,' 'balkanization of media,' and 'balkanization of healthcare,' denoting the decentralization and fragmentation of various systems and services.
