What does the term 'ethnicity' primarily refer to?

The term 'ethnicity' refers to large groups of people who share common characteristics such as customs, language, religion, and cultural heritage. This definition reflects the complex social identities that individuals belong to and highlights how shared cultural practices and historical experiences can tie people together.

Ethnicity is not limited to legal status, as indicated in the choice concerning individuals with legal citizenship, nor is it solely focused on biological or racial classifications. It encompasses a broader cultural context, which includes various elements that contribute to a group’s identity, such as traditions and collective memories.

Additionally, the concept of ethnicity involves geographic dimensions, but it is not restricted to the geographical aspects alone. Ethnicity also captures the dynamic social and cultural ties that exist among groups, which may extend beyond specific locations. Overall, the chosen answer encompasses the comprehensive nature of what ethnicity truly represents in the context of social identity.