lappropriation

Lappropriation, often written as l’appropriation in French, is a term that denotes the act of taking something for one’s own use or ownership. In English discourse it is commonly used in reference to the general act of appropriation as well as to more specific contexts such as cultural, legal, financial, or intellectual property domains. The word carries a neutral descriptive sense in law and policy, but in cultural discussion it frequently intersects with debates about power, consent, and respect.

Cultural appropriation is one of the most discussed senses of l’appropriation. It describes the adoption of elements from another culture by members of a different culture or dominant group. Proponents may frame it as appreciation or exchange, while critics argue it can reinforce stereotypes, erase context, or exploit marginalized communities. Discussions often focus on consent, attribution, historical power imbalances, and the presence of meaningful cultural significance.

In legal and governmental contexts, appropriation refers to the allocation or setting aside of resources, especially money. An appropriation act or bill authorizes the use of funds for specific programs and time periods. Related concepts include property or land appropriation, where authorities take ownership or usage rights, sometimes through processes like eminent domain, typically with compensation.

In intellectual property and business, appropriation can describe the use or misappropriation of ideas, works, or trade secrets without authorization. The term “misappropriation” is used in several legal regimes to denote unlawful or improper use of another’s property or information.

See also: cultural exchange, cultural appreciation versus appropriation, eminent domain, intellectual property, misappropriation.