Bourgeois

The term 'bourgeois' refers to the middle class, particularly in the context of capitalist societies. It is often associated with materialism, conventionality, and a focus on financial pursuits over cultural or intellectual interests. Historically, the bourgeoisie emerged as a powerful social class during the Industrial Revolution, characterized by their ownership of production and business interests. The term can carry a pejorative connotation, suggesting a lack of creativity or depth.

Bourgeois meaning with examples

• In the novel, the protagonist struggles against the values of the bourgeois society that prioritizes wealth over personal fulfillment, ultimately leading her on a journey of self-discovery beyond material possessions and societal expectations.
• During the cultural revolution, many young activists rejected the bourgeois lifestyles of their parents, seeking instead to embrace simplicity and community living, which they believed would foster a more equitable society.
• The art critic dismissed the exhibition as 'bourgeois' because he felt that its commercial success overshadowed its artistic merit, arguing that true art must transcend the limitations of middle-class taste and consumerism.
• As a child of bourgeois parents, she often felt caught between their expectations for financial success and her own dreams of pursuing a career in the arts, leading to a profound inner conflict.
• In discussions about economic inequality, the term 'bourgeois' often arises, highlighting the divide between the wealthy elite and the working class, and prompting debates about social and economic justice.