Exoticalness

/ɪɡˈzɑːtɪkəlnəs/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of being exotic; the distinctive character of being foreign or strikingly unusual.

Etymology

From exotic + the suffix -al + the noun suffix -ness. This creates an abstract noun describing the property of exoticism itself.

Kelly Says

The exoticalness of something is really about perception—what seems exotic depends entirely on where you're from, which is why 'exotic fruit' in New York is just a regular Tuesday snack in Thailand!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Nominalization of 'exotic' that abstractly refers to 'the quality of being exotic.' It retains the colonial gendered baggage while creating a veneer of academic neutrality.

Inclusive Usage

When discussing objects or art, define what specific qualities you mean (rarity, unfamiliarity, cultural distinctiveness) rather than relying on this vague, historically loaded term.

Inclusive Alternatives

["distinctiveness","unfamiliarity","cultural specificity"]

Related Words

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