Racial: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when discussing aspects related to race in a neutral or scientific manner.

• The study focused on racial differences in health outcomes.
• He experienced racial profiling at the airport.

Appropriate for describing cultural heritage, traditions, or groups. It can refer to cultural rather than strictly racial identity.

• They celebrated various ethnic cuisines at the food festival.
• The town has a rich ethnic diversity.

Typically used in discussions about how certain traits or behaviors are associated with race, often in a socio-political context.

• The conversation about crime rates is often racialized in media coverage.
• Racialized groups face distinct challenges in society.

Used when referring to discriminatory beliefs or actions against someone based on their race. This term has a very negative connotation.

• That was a blatantly racist comment.
• Racist policies have long-term effects on communities of color.

Used when referring to issues, characteristics, or distinctions based on race. This term can be neutral or negative depending on context.

• The racial diversity in the city is remarkable.
• Racial tensions have been rising in recent years.

Used to describe cultural aspects related to a specific ethnic group. This term is more specific to culture and traditions.

• Ethnical festivals celebrate the traditions of different groups.
• Her ethnical background includes rich cultural practices.

An outdated term that is rarely used today. It historically referred to someone who believes in or promotes the concept of racial superiority. This term has a strongly negative connotation and is similar to 'racist'.

• The racialist views of the past have been widely condemned.
• Racialist ideologies have no place in modern society.