Privilege Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
👑
privilege
[ˈprɪvɪlɪdʒ ]
Definitions
legal
A special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group of people.
Synonyms
advantage, benefit, entitlement.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| privilege |
Use 'privilege' when talking about special rights or advantages that are granted to a certain group of people, often implying a higher social status or position.
|
| advantage |
Use 'advantage' when referring to a condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable or superior position.
|
| benefit |
Use 'benefit' when describing something that promotes well-being or is helpful. It is less about exclusivity and more about practical advantages.
|
| entitlement |
Use 'entitlement' when indicating a right to have something or when someone believes they deserve some privileges or benefits, often with a negative connotation implying a sense of undeserved right.
|
Examples of usage
- Education is a privilege, not a right.
- She was born into privilege and never had to worry about money.
social
A special opportunity to do something that brings particular pleasure or enjoyment.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| privilege |
Use this word when talking about a special right or advantage that is given to a particular person or group.
|
| pleasure |
Use this word to describe a feeling of happy satisfaction and enjoyment.
|
| honor |
Use this word when referring to a high respect or esteem given to someone because of their actions or achievements.
|
| joy |
Use this word when describing a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.
|
Examples of usage
- It's a privilege to be able to travel the world and experience different cultures.
- Working with children is a privilege, not a burden.
formal
To grant a privilege or privileges to; bestow a privilege or privileges on.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| privilege |
Same as first entry; see above.
|
| honor |
Used when giving recognition or respect to someone for their achievements or qualities. It often implies a high level of esteem and respect.
|
| grant |
Commonly used in official contexts when referring to giving permission, rights, or benefits. It can imply a formal approval or concession.
|
| bestow |
Often used in formal or ceremonial contexts when giving an honor, award, or gift. It has a sense of conferring something important or valuable.
|
Examples of usage
- The manager decided to privilege certain employees with extra benefits.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Social Science
- Privilege often varies based on factors like race, gender, and socioeconomic status, impacting life experiences.
- Research shows that individuals with certain privileges often have better access to education, healthcare, and career opportunities.
- The concept helps highlight social inequalities and encourages discussions about equity and justice.
Pop Culture
- In the series 'The Handmaid's Tale', the absence of privilege is a central theme, illustrating the dangers of power imbalance.
- Many songs and movies reflect on themes of privilege, showcasing the disparities in society and calling for awareness and change.
- Reality TV often highlights drastic differences in privilege, leading to discussions around fairness and wealth distribution.
Educational Insights
- Critical Race Theory discusses privilege extensively, analyzing how systemic factors contribute to inequality.
- Workshops and courses around diversity often address privilege to help individuals understand their own position in society.
- Students are encouraged to reflect on their privileges to promote empathy and foster inclusive environments.
Psychology
- Psychological studies indicate that people who recognize their privilege can show increased empathy towards marginalized groups.
- Discussions about privilege can be emotionally challenging, leading to feelings of guilt or defensiveness.
- Understanding privilege is linked to higher emotional intelligence and social awareness.
Origin of 'privilege'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'privilegium', where 'privus' means 'private' and 'lex' means 'law', indicating a private law that grants benefits.
- It originally referred to a special law or right granted to individuals or groups, often nobles.
- Over centuries, the term evolved from a specific legal context to encompass various societal advantages.
The word 'privilege' originated from the Latin word 'privilegium', which means 'law applying to one person'. In ancient Rome, a 'privilegium' was a law that applied to a specific individual or group, granting them special rights or immunities. Over time, the meaning of 'privilege' evolved to encompass a wider range of special rights or advantages granted to individuals or groups. Today, the concept of privilege is often debated in social, political, and legal contexts, with discussions around issues of inequality, discrimination, and access to opportunities.
See also: privileged, privileges.