Hinayana is a term used in Buddhism to refer to the "smaller vehicle" or the "lesser vehicle." It is often contrasted with Mahayana (the "greater vehicle"). Hinayana refers to the early schools of Buddhism that developed in India, and are often characterized by a focus on individual liberation (arhatship) and meditation practice. The term is not commonly used in contemporary Buddhist discourse, as it is seen as a pejorative term that creates a false dichotomy between Buddhist traditions.