cancel culture
/ˈkænsəl ˈkʌltʃər/
Meaning
This term refers to the modern cultural phenomenon of publicly boycotting, shaming, or rejecting a public figure or company after they have said or done something considered objectionable. It usually happens online, especially on social media platforms. While some view it as accountability, others criticize it as a form of online bullying.
Examples
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Many celebrities worry about falling victim to cancel culture over old social media posts.
Many celebrities worry about falling victim to cancel culture over old social media posts.
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The debate around cancel culture is highly polarized, with strong opinions on both sides.
The debate around cancel culture is highly polarized, with strong opinions on both sides.
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Some argue that cancel culture holds powerful people accountable for their actions.
Some argue that cancel culture holds powerful people accountable for their actions.
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He claims that cancel culture has made people too afraid to speak their minds freely.
He claims that cancel culture has made people too afraid to speak their minds freely.
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The company faced the wrath of cancel culture after their controversial ad campaign.
The company faced the wrath of cancel culture after their controversial ad campaign.
Common Mistakes
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✗ The actor was cancel cultured by the internet.
✓ The actor fell victim to cancel culture.
'Cancel culture' is a noun phrase referring to the phenomenon, not a verb. To describe the action, use 'to cancel' or 'to get canceled'.
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✗ There is a lot of cancel cultures in modern media.
✓ There is a lot of cancel culture in modern media.
'Cancel culture' is an uncountable noun. Do not make it plural.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Some people believe that ___ has gone too far and ruins lives over minor mistakes.
💡 The social phenomenon of boycotting public figures online.
Show answer
cancel culture
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The rise of social media has fueled the growth of ___.
💡 The collective shaming and rejection of controversial figures.
Show answer
cancel culture