Partisanship Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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partisanship
[ˈpɑːrtɪˌzænʃɪp ]
Definitions
political
Strong support of a party, cause, or person, often without regard for objective considerations.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| partisanship |
Used when referring to strong, often blind support for a particular political party, group, or cause.
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| bias |
Refers to an inclination or prejudice for or against something or someone in a way that is considered unfair.
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| partiality |
An inclination to favor one side over the others, often implying unfair support or preference.
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| prejudice |
Preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience, often used in a negative context to describe unfair treatment based on race, gender, age, etc.
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Examples of usage
- His extreme partisanship made it difficult for him to see the other side's perspective.
- She accused the media of bias and partisanship in their coverage of the election.
general
The tendency to favor one group or cause over another.
Synonyms
discrimination, favoritism, favoritism.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| partisanship |
This word is commonly used in political and social scenarios to describe strong, biased support for a particular party, cause, or group. It often implies a refusal to consider other viewpoints.
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| favoritism |
This word is often used in workplace, family, or social settings to describe giving unfair preferential treatment to one person or group over others. It can have a negative connotation.
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| discrimination |
Use this word to describe unfair treatment of people based on race, gender, religion, or other characteristics. It is typically used in legal, social, and human rights discussions.
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Examples of usage
- The partisanship in the office was evident in the way promotions were given.
- Her partisanship towards certain charities influenced her philanthropic decisions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term originates from 'partisan,' which meant a supporter of a particular cause, especially in military contexts, as early as the 16th century.
- During the French Revolution, partisans were individuals who strongly supported the revolution against the monarchy, showing early political divisions.
- In the U.S. context, partisanship became pronounced in the early 19th century as political parties evolved into distinct entities.
Political Science
- High levels of partisanship can lead to gridlock in governments, where little gets accomplished due to persistent conflict between parties.
- Studies suggest that increased partisanship correlates with reduced bipartisanship, making collaboration between opposing parties more challenging.
- Partisanship influences voter behavior significantly, affecting how individuals perceive policies and candidates.
Media Representation
- Modern news outlets often exhibit partisanship, tailoring their content to align with specific political ideologies, shaping audience perceptions.
- Social media has amplified partisanship by creating 'echo chambers,' where users are exposed primarily to ideas that reinforce their existing beliefs.
- The rise of partisan media has led to increased polarization, with audiences more likely to reject opposing viewpoints based on their source.
Psychology
- Cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias, make individuals more likely to accept information supporting their partisan views while dismissing conflicting data.
- Emotional attachment to political parties can create in-group and out-group dynamics, influencing how people interact socially and politically.
- Partisanship can affect personal relationships, as differing political opinions may lead to disagreements or distance among friends and family.
Cultural Impact
- Partisanship influences various cultural aspects, from entertainment to art, often resulting in pieces that reflect or critique political divides.
- Historical events, like the American Civil War, are often viewed through a partisan lens, impacting how narratives are shaped and remembered.
- In popular culture, partisan themes are explored through satire, movies, and literature, showcasing the societal implications of divided beliefs.
Origin of 'partisanship'
The word 'partisanship' originated from the French word 'parti', meaning 'part', and the suffix '-ship' denoting a state or condition. Initially used in the context of political allegiance, it has evolved to encompass bias or favoritism in a broader sense. The concept of partisanship has been prevalent in various spheres of society throughout history, influencing decisions and relationships.
See also: nonpartisan.