The Concept of “Appropriated”

What Does “Appropriated” Mean?

The word “appropriated” is the past participle of the verb “appropriate.” It generally means to take something for one’s own use, typically without permission or consent.

However, context drastically changes its interpretation—ranging from legal budgeting to controversial cultural practices.

Common Contexts of Use

• Legal & Governmental: When a government “appropriates funds,” it legally sets aside money for a specific purpose.
• Art & Creativity: Artists may “appropriate” existing images or styles to create new works—a practice both celebrated and criticized.
• Cultural Appropriation: Adopting elements of a marginalized culture by members of a dominant culture, often without understanding or respect.
• Everyday Language: “He appropriated my idea during the meeting” implies unauthorized use.

Examples in Sentences

• The legislature appropriated $ 2 million for public education.
• Critics accused the fashion brand of appropriating Indigenous patterns without credit.
• She felt her colleague had appropriated her research findings.

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding “appropriated” helps navigate complex conversations about ownership, ethics, creativity, and power dynamics in society. Whether discussing public spending or cultural respect, the term carries significant weight.

As global interactions increase, being mindful of what we adopt—and how we do it—becomes essential for respectful coexistence.