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Demonise: meaning, definitions and examples

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demonise

 

[ˈdiːmənaɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in social context

To portray or represent as evil or diabolical, especially in order to influence public opinion.

Synonyms

demonize, vilify, villainize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
demonise

Primarily used in British English, this term often refers to portraying someone or something as evil or malign. Appropriate in discussions about media, politics, or public perception.

  • The media tends to demonise certain groups to fit their narrative.
  • He felt demonised by the press for his controversial opinions.
vilify

Used in both British and American English, 'vilify' tends to be more formal and is often found in legal or serious contexts. It means to speak or write about someone in a maliciously disparaging manner.

  • She was vilified in the press for her unconventional views.
  • The defendant's character was vilified during the trial.
demonize

Commonly used in American English with the same meaning as 'demonise.' Employed in social and political contexts to describe unjust negative portrayals.

  • It's not fair to demonize people just because they have different beliefs.
  • Political opponents often demonize each other during campaigns.
villainize

Slightly less common, 'villainize' means to turn someone into a villain in a story or narrative. Often seen in discussions about storytelling, media, and character analysis. Less formal than 'vilify' and less intense than 'demonize.'

  • The movie villainized the businessman as the main antagonist.
  • It's not right to villainize her; she's just following the rules.

Examples of usage

  • They demonise their political opponents in order to gain support.
  • The media often demonises certain groups based on stereotypes.
Context #2 | Verb

psychological context

To make someone seem evil or to make people believe that someone is evil.

Synonyms

dehumanize, delegitimize, vilify.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
demonise

Use 'demonise' when implying that someone or something is being portrayed as evil or malevolent, often unfairly or exaggeratedly.

  • The media tends to demonise certain political figures to influence public opinion
vilify

Use 'vilify' when referring to the act of speaking or writing in an abusively disparaging manner about someone or something. This often involves spreading negative and harmful information.

  • He was unfairly vilified by the press for his controversial statements
dehumanize

Use 'dehumanize' when describing actions or behaviors that strip away or deny someone's human qualities, dignity, or rights. This term is often used in serious discussions about oppression, war, and discrimination.

  • The cruel treatment of prisoners of war effectively served to dehumanize them
delegitimize

Use 'delegitimize' when the aim is to undermine or question the legitimacy, credibility, or authority of someone or something. This is often used in political, social, or legal contexts.

  • The opposition party attempted to delegitimize the election results

Examples of usage

  • The therapist helped her realize that she was demonising herself.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Greek 'daimon,' meaning spirit or being, which later took on negative connotations.
  • In the Middle Ages, the meaning shifted, associating demons with evil spirits in Christian theology.
  • In literature, the term began to be used metaphorically in the 19th century to describe character vilification.

Psychology

  • Demonising can lead to dehumanisation, where we see others as less than human, making it easier to justify harmful actions.
  • The process often involves emphasizing negative traits while ignoring positive aspects, skewing perceptions.
  • Empathy can counter the tendency to demonise; understanding someone's perspective can reduce animosity.

Politics

  • Politicians may demonise opponents to rally support, presenting them as threats to society or values.
  • This tactic can create fear and division, simplifying complex issues into good vs. evil narratives.
  • Media often plays a significant role in this process, framing stories that can shape public opinion and perception.

Literature

  • Various novels depict protagonists who demonise antagonists, illustrating moral conflicts and societal struggles.
  • Classic works like 'Frankenstein' explore how characters are demonised by society for being different.
  • Shakespeare often portrayed characters who demonise others to highlight themes of jealousy and betrayal.

Cultural Studies

  • Many cultures have myths where outsiders are demonised to protect communal identity or justify exclusion.
  • Stereotypes often stem from demonising specific groups, creating harmful narratives that persist in society.
  • Public figures historically have been demonised during crises, influencing collective sentiment and behavior.

Translations

Translations of the word "demonise" in other languages:

🇵🇹 demonizar

🇮🇳 राक्षस बनाना

🇩🇪 dämonisieren

🇮🇩 mengutuk

🇺🇦 демонізувати

🇵🇱 demonizować

🇯🇵 悪魔化する

🇫🇷 diaboliser

🇪🇸 demonizar

🇹🇷 şeytanlaştırmak

🇰🇷 악마화하다

🇸🇦 شيطنة

🇨🇿 démonizovat

🇸🇰 démonizovať

🇨🇳 妖魔化

🇸🇮 demonizirati

🇮🇸 djöflast

🇰🇿 шайтандандыру

🇬🇪 დემონიზება

🇦🇿 şeytanlaşdırmaq

🇲🇽 demonizar

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,834, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.