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Why has general usage seemingly changed from "left-wing" to "leftist"?
So, I'm pretty sure the substantive change in usage is just fashion.
You might make an argument that leftist, left-wing and left-leaning describe different positions.
Also, an -ism is a badge to wear with pride, or to be labelled with as an attack.
gbj_tester
Why has general usage seemingly changed from "left-wing" to "leftist"? Simply because the similarity to other "-ist" type words makes it more seem more pejorative?
For e.g. racist.
I admit, I've preferred the use of Brexist over Brexiter to describe people for that reason, glass houses, stones etc.