What does appeasement mean Meaning and Definition
What does appeasement mean
Pronunciation
/əˈpiziːmənt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A policy of giving in to the demands of a person or group in order to avoid conflict or disagreement, often at the expense of one’s own interests or values.
Examples
- The government’s appeasement policy towards the opposition led to widespread criticism.
- Her parents’ constant appeasement of her demands only led to her becoming more spoiled.
Synonyms
- Capitulation
- Surrender
Antonyms
- Resistance
- Defiance
Additional Information
Appeasement is often seen as a short-term solution to avoid conflict, but it can lead to long-term negative consequences, such as creating a culture of entitlement or emboldening aggressive behavior. In international relations, appeasement can be seen as a sign of weakness, leading to further demands or aggression.
In personal relationships, appeasement can create unhealthy dynamics, where one person’s needs and desires are constantly prioritized over the other’s. It’s essential to find a balance between compromise and standing up for one’s own values and interests.
Etymology
The word “appeasement” originated in the 15th century from the Old French word “apaisement,” meaning “pacification” or “soothing.” It is derived from the Latin words “appacem,” meaning “to calm” or “to soothe,” and “ment,” a suffix indicating a resulting state.
Usage Notes
Appeasement is often used in political and diplomatic contexts to describe the act of giving in to demands or requests to avoid conflict or maintain peace. However, it can also be used in personal relationships to describe the act of constantly giving in to someone else’s demands or requests.
Cultural References
The policy of appeasement is often associated with Neville Chamberlain, the British Prime Minister who signed the Munich Agreement in 1938, allowing Nazi Germany to annex parts of Czechoslovakia. This event is seen as a classic example of appeasement in international relations.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Appease the beast: to give in to someone’s demands or requests in order to avoid conflict or trouble.
Related Words or Phrases
- Compromise
- Concession
Collocations
- Policy of appeasement
- Act of appeasement
Frequency of Use
Appeasement is a relatively common word in modern language, often used in political and diplomatic contexts. Its frequency of use has increased in recent years due to its relevance in international relations and global politics.