Cool MateDiscrimination
UK /["/dɪˌskrɪmɪˈneɪʃn/"]/US /["/dɪˌskrɪmɪˈneɪʃn/"]/
Definition
the practice of treating somebody or a particular group in society less fairly than others
In simple words: Treating people differently and unfairly based on certain traits.
Examples
- Discrimination based on race is illegal in many countries.
- She faced discrimination at work because of her gender.
- The company has implemented policies to prevent discrimination against disabled employees.
- Discrimination can also refer to the ability to perceive subtle differences between similar things.
- Good sensory discrimination is important for a chef to distinguish nuanced flavors.
- The student's discrimination in recognizing different musical notes improved after practice.
Usage notes
Use in discussions about social justice, equality, and human rights. Avoid in casual conversations unless discussing serious topics.
Grammar pattern
discrimination + against + group
Memory hint
Think of 'dis-crime-ination' as committing a crime against fairness.
Collocations
- gender
- sex
- sexual
- level
- amount to
- constitute
- encounter
- occur
- exist
- discrimination against
- discrimination by
- discrimination in favour/favor of
- an act of discrimination
- discrimination based on something
- evidence of discrimination
- fine
- great
- colour/color
- make
- show
- discrimination between
- fine
- great
- colour/color
- make
- show
- discrimination between
Synonyms
- bias
- prejudice
- inequality
- bigotry
- favoritism
Antonyms
- equality
- fairness
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'prejudice' which is more about thoughts, while discrimination involves actions.
- Using it as a verb; 'discriminate' is the verb form.
- Mixing it up with 'segregation' which specifically refers to separation.