Prejudice Meaning and Definition
Prejudice
Pronunciation
/ˈprɛdjuːdɪs/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A prejudice is a preconceived opinion or feeling, especially a negative one, against a person, group, or idea, often based on incomplete or inaccurate information or stereotypes.
Examples
1. “The news story was filled with prejudice, presenting a biased view of the situation.”
2. “Many people harbor prejudices against those who are different from themselves.”
Synonyms
1. Bias
2. Preconception
3. Stereotype
Antonyms
1. Open-mindedness
2. Fairness
3. Objectivity
Etymology
The word “prejudice” originated from the Latin words “praepredium” (a judgment before the fact) and “judicium” (judgment), and it has been used in English since the 15th century to describe preconceived opinions or feelings.
Additional Information
Prejudice can manifest in various forms, such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and classism, and it can have serious consequences, including social inequality, discrimination, and violence. Understanding the root causes of prejudice is essential for addressing and overcoming it, and promoting greater tolerance, empathy, and understanding among people.
Prejudice can be passed down through generations, cultural norms, and societal expectations, making it a deeply ingrained phenomenon. However, it is also a movable feast, and attitudes can change with exposure, education, and personal experiences.
It’s worth noting that prejudice is not the same as having a preference or an opinion. A preference is a subjective choice, while prejudice is an often unjustified negative evaluation of a group or individual based on characteristics such as age, sex, or ethnicity.
Prejudice can also be a result of fear, ignorance, or lack of exposure. People may unfairly judge or ostracize others due to limited understanding or because they feel threatened by differences. However, once people are exposed to different perspectives, interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds, and gain a deeper understanding of various cultures and experiences, their prejudices often begin to fade, and empathy and tolerance grow.
Overcoming prejudice requires a combination of education, dialogue, and direct experience. It involves actively seeking out information from credible sources, engaging in respectful conversations, and challenging our own biases and assumptions. By working together to create a society that values diversity, promotes understanding, and encourages openness, we can gradually chip away at prejudice and build a more inclusive and compassionate world.
Usage Notes
When using the word “prejudice,” it’s essential to be mindful of the context and the potential impact on the listener or reader. Avoid using the term as a pejorative or to shame individuals, as this can reinforce negative stereotypes and create defensiveness.
Instead, use “prejudice” to describe a specific attitude or behavior, and focus on the underlying causes and consequences. This approach encourages constructive dialogue, fosters empathy, and promotes a deeper understanding of the complexities involved.
Cultural References
The concept of prejudice has been explored in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, Harper Lee’s novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” (1960) is a powerful exploration of racial prejudice in the American South, while the film “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” (1967) tackles interracial prejudice in a more lighthearted but still thought-provoking way.
Prejudice is also a recurring theme in music, with artists like Bob Dylan, Nina Simone, and Kendrick Lamar addressing issues of racism, sexism, and social justice in their lyrics.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Prejudice against” – used to describe a preconceived opinion or feeling against a person or group.
2. “Overcome one’s prejudice” – to challenge and change one’s preconceived opinions or feelings.
3. “Hold prejudice against” – to unfairly judge or refuse to consider someone or something due to preconceived opinions or feelings.
Collocations
1. “Racial prejudice” – prejudice based on race or ethnicity.
2. “Social prejudice” – prejudice based on social class or status.
3. “Cultural prejudice” – prejudice based on cultural differences.
Frequency of Use
The word “prejudice” is commonly used in everyday language, particularly in discussions around social justice, equality, and human rights. However, its usage can be context-dependent, and it’s essential to be mindful of the audience and the tone when using the term.
Common Misspellings
1. “Prejuice” – misspelling of “prejudice” with a double “u” instead of a “d” and single “u” at the end.
2. “Prejudicee” – misspelling with an extra “e” at the end.