C1noun2K

Privilege

UK /["/ˈprɪvəlɪdʒ/"]/US /["/ˈprɪvəlɪdʒ/"]/

Definition

a special right or advantage that a particular person or group of people has

In simple words: A special right or advantage that some people have.

Examples

  • Having a good education is often seen as a privilege rather than a right.
  • Access to clean water is considered a basic privilege for all humans.
  • He used his privilege to bypass the usual lines and get special treatment.
  • In some countries, political privilege allows certain officials to avoid prosecution.
  • Teachers have the privilege of influencing young minds and shaping their futures.
  • The lawyer claimed attorney-client privilege to keep the conversation confidential.
  • She enjoyed the privilege of having private access to confidential documents.

Usage notes

Use when discussing advantages based on class, status, or specific rights. It's often used in social justice contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless relevant.

Grammar pattern

privilege + object

Memory hint

Think of 'private legs' — imagine someone with legs that take them places others can't go.

Collocations

  • exclusive
  • special
  • class
  • enjoy
  • exercise
  • have
  • enormous
  • great
  • rare
  • have
  • give somebody

Synonyms

  • honour

Antonyms

  • disadvantage
  • inequality
  • hardship

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'privilage' — misspelling.
  • Omitting the 'e' when used as a noun — 'privilege' vs 'privildge'.
  • Using it inappropriately as a verb — 'to privilege' in informal contexts.