What does multiculturally mean?
Multiculturally is an adverb meaning in a way that recognizes, includes, or draws on multiple cultures. It is used when describing approaches, environments, or perspectives that take account of different cultural traditions rather than treating one culture as the sole norm. Typical contexts include education, museums, workplaces, public policy, and community life. The word can suggest inclusiveness and awareness of cultural difference, although its use may also indicate an intention to represent diversity or accommodate several cultural identities. It is more precise than simply saying “with many cultures,” because it describes an approach or manner rather than merely a population. The adverb is formed from the adjective “multicultural,” and it is often found in formal or institutional writing, though it can appear in ordinary conversation when cultural diversity is being discussed. Its usefulness lies in making explicit how cultural plurality is being approached in a particular situation.
adverbIn a manner that recognizes, includes, or draws on multiple cultures.
- In a way that acknowledges, represents, or involves people and perspectives from multiple cultures.
"The museum designed its multiculturally inclusive exhibitions to represent communities from around the world."
"The school is becoming increasingly multiculturally diverse."
"She approached the issue from a multiculturally informed perspective."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does multiculturally come from?
“Multiculturally” is an English formation made by adding the adverbial suffix -ly to the adjective “multicultural.” “Multicultural” combines the prefix multi-, from Latin multus, meaning “many,” with cultural, derived from Latin cultura and culturalis. Related English formations include “multiculturalism” and “multiculture,” while words such as “multiracial” use the same productive multi- element.
How multiculturally is actually used
This is a relatively uncommon and somewhat formal adverb. It is especially common in discussions of education, organizations, communities, and cultural diversity.