Carpetbaggers Meaning in English
word · lemma: carpetbagger
Definition
A 'carpetbagger' originally referred to a person from the Northern United States who moved to the South after the Civil War, often seeking personal gain. Now, it describes someone who moves to a new place just to take advantage of opportunities, usually in politics or business.
Usage & Nuances
'Carpetbagger' is usually used in a negative sense, implying opportunism or lack of genuine connection. Common in historical, political, and business contexts. Rare in everyday conversation.
Example Sentences
After the war, many carpetbaggers moved south to start new businesses.
basic
People saw the newcomers as carpetbaggers seeking power and money.
basic
The mayor accused his rival of being a carpetbagger from another city.
basic
Some voters distrust carpetbaggers who seem only interested in winning elections, not helping the community.
natural
They called him a carpetbagger because he hadn't lived in the state before running for office.
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In business, carpetbaggers sometimes swoop into struggling towns, buy assets cheaply, and then leave.
natural