Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌdɪs.krɪˈmɪ.neɪʃən/

Definitions

• The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, often based on race, age, sex, religion, or disability.
• The ability to recognize and understand subtle differences or distinctions, often used in the context of judgment or perception.
• The action or practice of making distinctions between individuals or groups, especially in legal or social contexts.

Usage Examples

• Racial discrimination is a significant issue in many parts of the world.
• She faced discrimination in the workplace due to her gender.
• The system of caste discrimination in India has deep historical roots.

Etymology

The word "discrimination" comes from the Latin word "discriminatio," which means "a distinguishing or separation." It derives from "discriminare," meaning "to divide or separate." The term entered English in the early 17th century, initially referring to the act of distinguishing between things. Over time, it gained its modern connotation, often associated with bias and unfair treatment of different groups of people based on various characteristics.

Synonyms

• Prejudice
• Bias
• Bigotry
• Injustice
• Exclusion

Antonyms

• Equality
• Fairness
• Impartiality
• Justice
• Inclusivity

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, "discrimination" tends to be pronounced with a clear "t" sound at the end.
• In American English, the final "t" may be softer, sounding more like a "d" in rapid speech.

Historical Usage

The term "discrimination" originally referred to the ability to make distinctions or recognize differences between things, stemming from the Latin "discriminare," meaning "to separate or distinguish." In the 19th and 20th centuries, the term began to acquire its modern negative connotation, particularly with regard to social inequality, legal rights, and the treatment of marginalized groups. Today, the word is commonly associated with unfair or unequal treatment based on race, gender, age, disability, or other factors.

Cultural Nuances

While the concept of discrimination is most often used in a negative light in modern discussions, the term can also have neutral or positive meanings in different contexts. For instance, in scientific fields such as psychology, discrimination refers to the ability to differentiate between stimuli or distinguish subtle differences. In the arts, a discriminating eye refers to a person with a refined sense of taste. However, in most societal contexts, "discrimination" implies unjust treatment and prejudice, often leading to calls for equality and social justice.

More Information

Discrimination remains one of the most pressing issues in modern societies, especially concerning racial, gender, and disability-related inequalities. Legal frameworks, such as civil rights laws in the U.S. and similar legislation worldwide, aim to combat discrimination by promoting equal treatment and preventing bias in areas like employment, housing, and education. Cultural and historical shifts have also contributed to growing awareness and advocacy for marginalized communities. While progress has been made in addressing discrimination, much work remains to ensure full equality and social justice for all individuals, regardless of their background or characteristics.