Zoeken
Banana republic
01
banaanrepubliek
a country with a weak economy that heavily relies on the export of a limited product, such as bananas, and may be influenced by foreign powers or investments
What is the origin of the idiom "banana republic" and when to use it?
The idiom "banana republic" was coined by American writer O. Henry in his 1904 book "Cabbages and Kings." It gained widespread usage and recognition after the book was published. O. Henry used the term to describe fictional countries in Latin America that were characterized by political instability, corruption, and economic dependence on a single export, which in the book's case was bananas. The term has since been used in discussions about developing nations or regions where a single export commodity, such as bananas, dominates the economy.
Voorbeeld
Many people consider that country a banana republic due to its rampant corruption.
The documentary exposes the realities of living in a modern-day banana republic.
The citizens protested against the oppressive regime that ruled the banana republic for decades.
The journalist reported extensively on the human rights abuses that occurred during the era of the banana republic.
He often criticizes government policies, arguing they contribute to the country's banana republic status.
