PhrasesHub

sense of belonging

    Definitions

      • feeling of acceptance and inclusion within a group or community
        Describing the emotional connection and comfort one feels when they are a part of a particular social circle or environment

      • understanding of one's place and purpose within a group or society
        Referring to the awareness and recognition of one's role and significance within a specific community or cultural context

    Examples of sense of belonging

    • John always felt like an outsider, but joining the local community center gave him a much-needed sense of belonging.

      This idiom refers to the feeling of connectedness and acceptance that one experiences when they identify and are accepted as part of a group or community. In this example, John lacked this sense of belonging before joining the community center, but found it once he became involved in its activities and social events.

    • Growing up, Sarah never felt like she fit in with her peers because of her unconventional interests. However, she discovered a group of like-minded individuals through a online forum, and for the first time, she felt a strong sense of belonging.

      This example illustrates how the internet has facilitated the formation of niche communities and provided an outlet for individuals who may not find a sense of belonging in offline communities.

    • The parents' association at Rachel's school played a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging among its members. Through regular meetings, social events, and collaborative projects, the parents felt a shared sense of responsibility and investment in the school's community.

      This example highlights the role that institutions and organizations can play in creating a sense of belonging among their members. By providing opportunities for social interaction, collaboration, and shared values, these institutions can foster a strong sense of membership and connection.

    • Despite having lived in the same neighborhood for over a decade, Claire still didn't feel like she belonged. She attributed this to the fact that she rarely interacted with her neighbors and didn't feel a sense of shared values or interests.

      This example demonstrates that a sense of belonging isn't solely determined by geographic proximity or shared interests, but also by social connections and interaction. Claire's lack of social integration in her community contributed to her feelings of isolation and non-belonging.

    • Alex always felt a strong sense of belonging when he stepped foot onto his high school's football field. It was where he excelled, where he had a sense of purpose, and where he felt truly at home.

      The phrase "sense of belonging" refers to a deep-rooted connection or feeling of acceptance in a particular place, group, or community. In this example, Alex experiences this sense of belonging when he is on the football field because it is where he feels the most comfortable, competent, and a part of something larger than himself.

    • My grandmother's homemade apple pie always makes me feel like I belong in her cozy kitchen. Being surrounded by the warm aroma, familiar utensils, and loving memories creates a sense of comfort and connection that I can't find elsewhere.

      In this example, the phrase "sense of belonging" is used to describe a connection to a specific place or experience, where one may feel a sense of comfort, nostalgia, or intimacy. By using this idiom, the author emphasizes the importance of her grandmother's kitchen as a source of familiarity, tradition, and familial bonds.

    • After moving to a new city, I struggled to find a sense of belonging. But then I discovered a group of avid hikers, and I immediately felt at home with their shared love for nature and adventure.

      This example demonstrates how the phrase "sense of belonging" is used to describe the feeling of fitting in or connecting with a group of people who share common values, interests, or experiences. By using this idiom, the author highlights the role that community and social connections can play in helping individuals feel a sense of acceptance, purpose, and identity.

    • Growing up in a close-knit family, I always felt a strong sense of belonging. Our shared traditions, inside jokes, and love for each other created a sense of unity and support that I carry with me today.

      In this final example, the phrase "sense of belonging" is used to describe the feeling of being deeply connected to one's family or loved ones. By using this idiom, the author highlights the importance of familial bonds in shaping one's identity, providing a sense of security and support, and fostering a sense of unity and shared values.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "sense of belonging" conveys the deep emotional connection and acceptance one feels within a group or community. It also refers to the understanding of one's place and purpose within a larger societal context. This phrase is often used to describe the comfort and security that comes from being a part of a community, as well as the awareness of one's significance within that group.

    Origin of "sense of belonging"

    The origin of the idiom "sense of belonging" can be traced back to the human need for social connection and acceptance. It is a fundamental aspect of human psychology to seek out a sense of belonging within a group or community. This need for belonging is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history, as our ancestors relied on group cohesion for survival. As a result, the concept of "belonging" has been a prominent theme in literature, psychology, and sociology. The phrase itself likely emerged from the universal experience of seeking acceptance and understanding within social circles and communities.

    Overall, the idiom "sense of belonging" reflects the innate human desire for connection and understanding within a larger group or society. It captures the emotional and psychological significance of feeling accepted and included, as well as the awareness of one's place and purpose within a specific social context.