C1adjective3K

Tribal

UK /["/ˈtraɪbl/"]/US /["/ˈtraɪbl/"]/

Definition

connected with a tribe or tribes

In simple words: Related to a group of people with the same culture or traditions.

Examples

  • tribal art
  • tribal leaders
  • He photographed Tahitian men with traditional tribal tattoos.
  • In rural areas, family and tribal loyalties remain important.
  • It is an international group campaigning for the rights of tribal peoples.
  • The area had been ravaged by tribal warfare.
  • They work together with the tribal groups to help them revive their culture.

Usage notes

Use 'tribal' to describe something connected to a specific group or culture. It's suitable in academic or cultural discussions but may be inappropriate in contexts that require sensitivity regarding cultural identity.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'tribe'—imagine a group of friends gathered around a campfire sharing stories.

Collocations

  • tribal community
  • tribal culture
  • tribal customs
  • tribal leaders
  • tribal identity

Synonyms

  • ethnic
  • cultural
  • communal
  • folk
  • clan

Antonyms

  • civilized
  • individualistic

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'tribal' with 'tribe' as a noun.
  • Using 'tribal' to describe modern social groups without context.
  • Assuming all tribal groups share the same practices or beliefs.