Meaning & Definition of word "Discrimination"

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    Discrimination

    /dɪsˌkrɪmɪˈneɪʃən/

    noun:

    • 1. The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex.
      • Example: Discrimination based on race is illegal in many countries.
    • 2. The ability to perceive and respond to differences; the act of distinguishing between different things.
      • Example: The artist's discrimination in color choice was evident in the vibrant painting.
    • 3. In psychology, the ability to differentiate between similar stimuli.
      • Example: The study focused on auditory discrimination in young children.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'discriminatio', which means 'a distinguishing' or 'a separation'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    racial discrimination:

    Unjust treatment based on an individual's race.

    age discrimination:

    Unjust treatment based on a person's age.

    gender discrimination:

    Unfair treatment based on a person's gender.

    Related Words

    bias:

    A tendency to favor one thing over another.

    prejudice:

    Preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.

    inequality:

    The state of not being equal, especially in status, rights, or opportunities.

    Slang Meanings of discrimination

    Meaning: Discrimination against a group based on stereotypes.

    Example Sentence: That job ad reeks of discrimination against older workers.

    Meaning: Subtle forms of bias in everyday situations.

    Example Sentence: There’s a lot of micro-discrimination happening in workplaces.