cultural resonance

Meanings

1. 1phraseuncountable

   The quality of an idea, symbol, or work of art that deeply connects with the shared values, memories, or identity of a group of people.

   Grammar: Used as an uncountable phrase; it does not take 'a' or a plural form in this sense.

   Patterns

   • have cultural resonance
   • lack cultural resonance
   • cultural resonance with a group
   • the cultural resonance of something

   The song has deep cultural resonance for people who grew up in that region.

   The film's cultural resonance comes from its honest portrayal of family life.

   The old flag still carries cultural resonance, even though it is no longer official.

2. 2phrasecountable or uncountable

   The specific meaning or emotional echo that a word, image, or custom has within a particular culture.

   Grammar: Can be used countably when referring to a particular instance: 'a cultural resonance that differs between countries'.

   Patterns

   • a cultural resonance
   • cultural resonances of a word
   • the cultural resonance of a symbol

   The color white has different cultural resonances in different countries.

   Translators must consider the cultural resonance of each phrase.

   The novel explores the cultural resonance of food in immigrant families.

Common combinations

deep cultural resonance

The poem has deep cultural resonance for the older generation.

lose cultural resonance

Some traditions lose cultural resonance as society changes.

cultural resonance with

The brand tried to create cultural resonance with young consumers.

a lack of cultural resonance

The new logo was criticized for its lack of cultural resonance.

Synonyms and how they differ

cultural significance

This focuses more on importance and meaning within a culture, while 'cultural resonance' emphasizes an emotional or symbolic echo.

cultural relevance

This means being connected to current cultural concerns; 'cultural resonance' is about a deeper, often emotional connection.

Opposites

Word family

culturally adverb

In a way that relates to culture: 'culturally significant'.

resonate verb

To produce a deep, clear sound or to have a strong emotional effect: 'The speech resonated with the audience.'

resonant adjective

Having a deep, clear sound or a strong emotional meaning.

Commonly confused: cultural resonance or cultural relevance?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “cultural resonance”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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