Society & Politics: English Vocabulary List

used to imply that a nation that has experienced little conflict or turmoil in its past is likely to be more stable, peaceful, and prosperous in the present and future

"A nation with no drama is a lucky nation — happy is the country which has no history."

"The small peaceful nation was rarely in the news — happy is the country which has no history."

used to imply unconditional loyalty and support for one's country, regardless of its actions or policies

"Support your country regardless — my country, right or wrong."

"He served without question, believing my country, right or wrong."

used to imply that the distinction between a language and a dialect is often determined by political power and influence rather than inherent linguistic differences

"Power defines what is a language — a language is a dialect with an army and a navy."

"The professor explained that political power, not just linguistic features, determines a language is a dialect with an army and a navy."

used to imply that all human beings are equal in their fundamental nature or origin, but social status or external factors like wealth and privilege can create significant distinctions or disparities among them

"Fine clothes distinguish people even if they are all equal — we are all Adam's children, but silk makes the difference."

"Everyone had the same background but dress and manner separated them — we are all Adam's children, but silk makes the difference."

used to imply that everyone has fundamental rights and freedoms, regardless of their social status or position, and that no one is above the law or immune to scrutiny

"Even a humble person has the right to observe greatness — a cat may look at a king."

"Even the lowest employee has the right to voice concerns, because a cat can look at a king."

used to imply that in many situations, those who have more power or resources can exploit or dominate those who have less

"The powerful consume the weak — big fish eat little fish."

"The multinational absorbed every small competitor in its path — big fish eat little fish."

used to emphasize the need for individuals or groups to stand up against oppressive systems, structures, or regimes in order to secure and promote freedom

"True freedom requires questioning authority — disobedience is the true foundation of liberty."

"The activists believed disobedience is the true foundation of liberty, challenging unjust laws."

used to suggest that those who have nothing to lose, such as beggars, may be more fearless and willing to take risks, including participating in rebellion or uprising

"Those with nothing have nothing to lose — beggars fear no rebellion."

"The people with the least had the least to lose from upheaval — beggars fear no rebellion."

used to imply that diversity and individual differences among people are necessary for the world to function and thrive

"It takes all sorts to make a world — some people love loud music."

"The team was made up of very different personalities, but as they say, it takes all sorts to make a world."

used to imply that urban life can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation due to the difficulty of forming meaningful social connections

"Big cities are paradoxically lonely places — a great city, a great solitude."

"She had millions of neighbours and felt entirely alone — a great city, a great solitude."