anti-european
UK[ˌæntiˌjʊərəˈpiːən]US[ˌæntiˌjʊrəˈpiːən]
adj
Opposed to or against the European Union, its policies, or European culture and influence.
n
A person who is opposed to or against the European Union, its policies, or European culture and influence.
Morpheme Breakdown
anti
european
anti
against
european
of Europe
Etymology
The word is a modern political compound formed in English. The prefix 'anti-', with its ancient Greek lineage meaning 'opposite' or 'against', is directly attached to the established adjective 'European'. This construction follows a highly productive pattern in English for forming terms of opposition, such as 'anti-war' or 'anti-establishment'. The term 'European' itself traces back to the Greek mythological figure Europa, whose name was later applied to the continent. Thus, 'anti-European' literally builds the meaning 'opposed to that which pertains to Europe', a concept that gained specific political and cultural resonance in the 20th and 21st centuries, particularly in contexts discussing the European Union and continental integration.
Analysis
Structure: anti (against) + european (of Europe)
- anti: From Greek, via Latin and French. A prefix meaning 'against', 'opposite of', or 'rivaling'.
- european: From Latin 'Europa' (Europe) + English suffix '-an' (belonging to or relating to). The base 'Europe' itself is from Greek 'Eurōpē', the name of a mythological princess.
Examples
The politician's anti-European rhetoric appealed to nationalist voters.
The newspaper was accused of promoting an anti-European agenda.
He was labeled an anti-European for his consistent criticism of EU regulations.