exceptionalism

American  

[ik-sep-shuh-nl-iz-uhm] / ɪkˈsɛp ʃə nlˌɪz əm /

noun

1. the condition of being exceptional; uniqueness.

2. the study of the unique and exceptional.

3. a theory that a nation, region, or political system is exceptional and does not conform to the norm.

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exceptionalism British  

/ ɪkˈsɛpʃənəlɪzəm /

noun

1. an attitude to other countries, cultures, etc based on the idea of being quite distinct from, and often superior to, them in vital ways

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Etymology

Origin of exceptionalism

First recorded in 1925–30; exceptional ( def. ) + -ism ( def. )

Example Sentences

The museum is inclusive, balancing the experience of all groups in the nation while stressing American progress, unity and exceptionalism.

From The Wall Street Journal

Unlike their elders, most millennial and Gen Z Americans reject that exceptionalism.

From Salon

However, “beyond early 2026, narrowing yield differentials and fading U.S. exceptionalism should pull USD Index lower,” the team added.

From The Wall Street Journal

Ed Yardeni advises investors to shift from U.S. exceptionalism to a balanced view, recognizing technology’s global impact.

From Barron's

Ed Yardeni, founder and chief investment strategist at Yardeni Research, is advising clients to shift their focus away from U.S. exceptionalism, or the idea that American innovation, regulation, and capital markets mean the country’s markets will outperform.

From Barron's