Describes a political orientation that combines right-wing or conservative politics with populist elements. Typical features include a strong emphasis on national interests, a critical attitude toward elites and immigration, and the simplification of complex political issues.
example
Die Partei vertritt rechtspopulistische Positionen und fordert strengere Einwanderungsgesetze.
The party represents right-wing populist positions and calls for stricter immigration laws.
Usage tips
Word composition
The adjective is made up of three parts: 'rechts' (right-wing, in the political sense), the linking element '-s-', and the adjective 'populistisch' (populist). The meaning follows directly from these components.
EXAMPLE
In der Debatte fielen einige rechtspopulistische Äußerungen.
Some right-wing populist remarks were made during the debate.
Typical collocations
This adjective usually describes political concepts or actors. Common combinations are: a 'rechtspopulistische Partei' (right-wing populist party), 'rechtspopulistische Politik' (right-wing populist politics), 'rechtspopulistische Parolen' (right-wing populist slogans), or 'rechtspopulistische Bewegungen' (right-wing populist movements).
EXAMPLE
Die Wahlkampagne enthielt viele rechtspopulistische Elemente.
The election campaign contained many right-wing populist elements.
Register: politics
The word is mainly used in political reporting, in discussions, and in academia. It is a technical term for describing a specific political strategy.
EXAMPLE
Der Politikwissenschaftler analysierte den Aufstieg rechtspopulistischer Strömungen in Europa.
The political scientist analyzed the rise of right-wing populist currents in Europe.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
rechtspopulistisch vs rechts
right
'rechts' and 'rechtspopulistisch' can both describe a political direction. However, 'rechts' is much more general. It can refer to conservative or nationalist positions. 'rechtspopulistisch' is more specific and describes a right-wing political direction that also works in a populist way, meaning it often oversimplifies strongly and positions itself against elites or certain groups. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with right-wing politics. 'rechts' tends to name the political side, while 'rechtspopulistisch' describes a particular kind of right-wing politics.
rechtspopulistisch
Der Kommentar kritisiert die rechtspopulistische Sprache des Politikers.
The comment criticizes the politician's right-wing populist language.
rechts
Die Partei steht politisch eher rechts und fordert strengere Regeln.
The party is politically more on the right and calls for stricter rules.
