Demonise: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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