Discriminatory: meaning, definitions and examples

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discriminatory

[dɪˈskrɪmɪnətəri ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in the workplace

Showing prejudice or bias based on factors such as race, gender, age, or disability. Discriminatory behavior can lead to a hostile work environment and legal consequences.

Synonyms

biased, prejudiced, unfair.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
discriminatory	Used in legal or formal contexts to describe actions or policies that exclude or disadvantage people based on characteristics like race, gender, age, etc. The company's hiring practices were found to be discriminatory against women. Discriminatory laws were abolished to ensure equality for all citizens.
prejudiced	Used when describing a preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience, often negative and harmful. He is prejudiced against immigrants. Her prejudiced views made it difficult for her to make friends from different cultures.
biased	Used to describe a person's or entity's inclination towards or against someone or something, often in a way considered to be unfair. The news article was clearly biased in favor of the government. She has a biased opinion about the new manager.
unfair	Used in everyday language to describe actions, rules, or situations that are not just or equitable. It was unfair that he was punished for something he didn't do. The grading system in the exam was unfair to students who studied hard.

Examples of usage

Her supervisor's discriminatory remarks made her feel uncomfortable at work.
The company was sued for discriminatory hiring practices.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

in society

Involving the unfair treatment of a particular group of people based on characteristics such as race, religion, or sexual orientation. Discriminatory policies can perpetuate inequality and social injustice.

Synonyms

discriminative, inequitable, oppressive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
discriminatory	Duplicate entry; see above.
inequitable	Refers to situations or actions that are unfair or unjust, often in terms of distribution of resources or opportunities. The inequitable distribution of wealth is a growing concern in many countries. Her contract terms were found to be inequitable compared to her male colleagues.
oppressive	Describes conditions or regimes that are harsh, cruel, or inflict undue hardship and suffering on people. The oppressive government silenced its critics through censorship and imprisonment. The weather became oppressive as temperatures soared above 40 degrees.
discriminative	Often used in a more neutral or technical context to describe a process or ability that distinguishes between different items or groups. The discriminative ability of the test helps in identifying high-achieving students. Their discriminative skills are crucial in quality control.

Examples of usage

The discriminatory laws of the past have had lasting effects on minority communities.
The organization strives to combat discriminatory practices in society.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'discriminare', which means to separate or distinguish.
It first appeared in English around the 18th century, focusing on distinguishing differences in treatment.
Its root word, 'discriminate', originally did not carry negative connotations and simply meant to recognize differences.

Law and Politics

Many countries have laws against discriminatory practices, particularly in employment and housing.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 in the United States was pivotal in outlawing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
Discriminatory actions can lead to legal consequences, including fines and mandated changes in practices.

Social Psychology

Discrimination often arises from group dynamics and biases, where people favor their own group over others.
Studies show that even subtle forms of discriminatory behavior, like microaggressions, can significantly impact mental health.
Social identity theory suggests that individuals derive part of their identity from the groups they belong to, influencing discrimination.

Cultural Impact

Cultural movements like the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. and anti-apartheid in South Africa were crucial in challenging discriminatory practices.
Literature and art often critique discriminatory behaviors and inspire social change; think of works like 'To Kill a Mockingbird'.
Modern media frequently addresses issues of discrimination, helping to raise awareness and foster dialogue about equality.

Education

Schools teach about discrimination to promote understanding and encourage empathy among students.
Anti-bullying programs often include discussions on discrimination, focusing on acceptance of diversity.
Educational workshops on bias and inclusivity are increasingly common in workplaces to combat discriminatory behaviors.

Translations

Translations of the word "discriminatory" in other languages:

🇵🇹 discriminatório

🇮🇳 भेदभावपूर्ण

🇩🇪 diskriminierend

🇮🇩 diskriminatif

🇺🇦 дискримінаційний

🇵🇱 dyskryminacyjny

🇯🇵 差別的な (さべつてきな)

🇫🇷 discriminatoire

🇪🇸 discriminatorio

🇹🇷 ayrımcı

🇰🇷 차별적인

🇸🇦 تمييزي

🇨🇿 diskriminační

🇸🇰 diskriminačný

🇨🇳 歧视性的

🇸🇮 diskriminatoren

🇮🇸 mismunandi

🇰🇿 дискриминациялық

🇬🇪 დისკრიმინაციული

🇦🇿 ayrımcı

🇲🇽 discriminatorio

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,891 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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7888 coincidence
7889 virgin
7890 embracing
7891 discriminatory
7892 tab
7893 registers
7894 cough
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