Disenfranchise: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is deprived of the right to vote or other legal rights, often in a political or social sense.

• The new law could disenfranchise thousands of voters.
• Efforts to disenfranchise minority communities are being challenged in court.

General term for taking away something necessary or desirable from someone, applicable to various contexts like physical needs, rights, or privileges.

• The harsh conditions deprived the prisoners of basic necessities.
• Being deprived of sleep can have serious health consequences.

Used when someone is made to feel less powerful or confident, often in social, organizational, or psychological contexts. Often has a negative connotation.

• Disempowering language can affect a person's self-esteem.
• Policies that disempower employees need to be reconsidered.

Specifically refers to removing someone's right to inherit, usually in the context of family and wills.

• The billionaire decided to disinherit his estranged son.
• They threatened to disinherit her if she married against their wishes.

Used when someone is intentionally left out of a group, activity, or privilege, often with negative implications.

• He felt excluded from the team activities.
• The policy must ensure no one is excluded based on their background.