Meaning & Definition of word "Prejudge"

Prejudge

/priːˈdʒʌdʒ/

verb:

  • 1. To form an opinion or judgment about something before having all the relevant facts or information.
    • Example: It's unfair to prejudge someone's abilities based solely on their appearance.
  • 2. To make a decision about something before it is fully considered or evaluated.
    • Example: The jury must not prejudge the case based on media reports.
  • 3. To anticipate or ascertain a situation without proper evidence.
    • Example: We should not prejudge their motives; we need more context.

Etymology

From the prefix 'pre-' meaning before, and 'judge' meaning to form an opinion about something.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Prejudging a book by its cover:

Making an opinion about something based solely on its appearance.

Jumping to conclusions:

Making a decision or forming an opinion hastily.

Related Words

bias:

A tendency to favor or disfavor something or someone unfairly.

stereotype:

A widely held but oversimplified and generalized belief about a particular group or class of people.

Slang Meanings of prejudge

Meaning: To jump to a conclusion based on stereotypes.

Example Sentence: Don't prejudge him just because he wears a hoodie.

Meaning: To assume something about a person without knowing their story.

Example Sentence: He might seem rude, but don't prejudge; he can be really nice once you get to know him.