Clique

A clique is a small, exclusive group of people who share similar interests, backgrounds, or social status, and who tend to exclude others. They often maintain a close-knit social structure, characterized by in-group loyalty and a sense of belonging, sometimes at the expense of outsiders. Cliques can form in various settings, including schools, workplaces, and social circles, and their influence can range from harmless companionship to exclusionary and even manipulative behavior. Members of a clique usually participate in group-specific activities or exclusive gatherings, reinforcing their bonds and solidifying their identities, which promotes an 'us' versus 'them' mentality. The dynamics within a clique can be complex, involving unwritten rules and hierarchies. The formation of cliques often emerges naturally, stemming from a combination of factors.

Clique meaning with examples

• At the high school cafeteria, the popular clique always sat at the same table, rarely interacting with students outside of their group. New students often felt intimidated by their tight-knit bond, and struggled to find a place amongst them because of their exclusivity, creating social boundaries within the school environment. This social phenomenon often makes integration hard.
• The office environment was filled with silent tension as a clique of senior managers made critical decisions, often without consulting other teams. This insular approach fostered resentment among those excluded, as the 'inner circle' controlled opportunities for advancement and information flow. This often meant that many employees felt less valued within their position.
• Sarah felt excluded from the clique in her college dorm; they always went to parties and social events, and rarely invited her or made any effort to include her in their conversations. Their shared interests and history made her feel more on the outside looking in as opposed to feeling a sense of integration. She hoped to eventually make some friends but found it difficult.
• The neighborhood watch group functioned as a clique, initially formed with good intentions, but over time, it began to exclude new residents and became overly suspicious of anyone outside their established circle. The members of the group often felt more powerful than they were and created a sense of distrust toward other citizens in the area.