Misogynistic: meaning, definitions and examples

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misogynistic

 

[ ˌmɪsəˈdʒɪnɪstɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Showing a dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against women. It can manifest in various ways, such as discrimination, objectification, or belittlement.

Synonyms

antifeminist, chauvinistic, sexist.

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Word Description / Examples
misogynistic

Utilize this term to describe a deep disrespect or hatred towards women. It carries a very strong, negative connotation and implies malicious intent.

  • His misogynistic remarks about women in leadership positions were unacceptable.
  • The novel was criticized for its misogynistic themes.
sexist

Use this term to describe attitudes, conditions, or behaviors that perpetuate stereotypes and discrimination based on gender. It is commonly used in broader and more systemic contexts, often negative but can be used descriptively.

  • The company's sexist policies have been heavily criticized.
  • She challenged the sexist assumptions made about her abilities at work.
chauvinistic

Employ this word to describe someone who has an exaggerated patriotism or believes in the superiority of their own group, often used in a gender context to denote male chauvinism. It also carries a negative connotation.

  • He had a chauvinistic attitude towards women, thinking they were less capable than men.
  • Her chauvinistic comments about national superiority offended many people.
antifeminist

This term is best used when discussing opposition to feminist movements or beliefs. It has a less severe connotation than 'misogynistic' but still carries a negative implication.

  • His antifeminist stance made him unpopular among the progressive crowd.
  • The policy changes were viewed as antifeminist setbacks for women's rights.

Examples of usage

  • He made misogynistic comments towards his female colleagues.
  • The movie was criticized for its misogynistic portrayal of women.
Context #2 | Adjective

language

Reflecting or reinforcing stereotypes about women that are derogatory or harmful. It often perpetuates societal attitudes that undermine gender equality.

Synonyms

degrading, offensive, sexist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
misogynistic

Use this word when referring specifically to attitudes, behaviors or comments that express a deep-seated prejudice against women, often implying hatred or severe disparagement.

  • His comments about women in the workplace were blatantly misogynistic
sexist

Use this word when addressing attitudes, behaviors, or comments that are discriminatory based on gender. It can apply to prejudice against any gender but is commonly used in the context of discrimination against women.

  • The company's policy was criticized as being sexist against female employees
degrading

This word is suitable for situations where someone or something is being lowered in dignity, respect or quality. It can apply to both actions and words that aim to diminish someone's worth.

  • The boss's degrading remarks made the employee feel worthless
offensive

Appropriate for situations where something causes someone to feel hurt, upset, or angry. It can refer to both words and actions, but carries a slightly broader scope than the other terms.

  • The comedian's jokes were considered highly offensive by many in the audience

Examples of usage

  • The lyrics of the song were criticized for being misogynistic.
  • His jokes were considered misogynistic by many audience members.

Translations

Translations of the word "misogynistic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 misógino

🇮🇳 स्त्री-विरोधी

🇩🇪 frauenfeindlich

🇮🇩 misogini

🇺🇦 мізогінний

🇵🇱 mizoginistyczny

🇯🇵 女性嫌悪的 (じょせいけんおてき)

🇫🇷 misogyne

🇪🇸 misógino

🇹🇷 kadın düşmanı

🇰🇷 여성혐오적인 (yeoseonghyeomojeogin)

🇸🇦 كاره للنساء

🇨🇿 mizogynní

🇸🇰 mizogynistický

🇨🇳 厌女 (yànnǚ)

🇸🇮 mizoginističen

🇮🇸 kvenfjandsamlegur

🇰🇿 әйел жеккөргіш

🇬🇪 ქალთმოძულე (kalṭmoṭsule)

🇦🇿 qadın düşməni

🇲🇽 misógino

Etymology

The term 'misogynistic' stems from the Greek word 'misogunos', which combines 'misos' (hatred) and 'gyne' (woman). The concept of misogyny has a long history, with roots in ancient civilizations where women were often considered inferior to men. The term gained prominence in the modern feminist movement as a way to address and challenge systemic discrimination against women.