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Stereotype Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stereotype

[ˈsteriəˌtaɪp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

social

A widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing.

Synonyms

cliché, generalization, prejudice.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stereotype

Stereotype is used when referring to a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. It often carries a negative connotation as it involves oversimplification.

  • People often believe the stereotype that all teenagers are irresponsible.
  • The stereotype of the 'dumb blonde' is both unfair and inaccurate.
cliché

Cliché is used when describing an idea, phrase, or element that has been overused to the point of losing its original meaning or effect. It is usually used in the context of writing or speaking.

  • The movie was full of clichés, like the hero rescuing the damsel in distress.
  • The phrase 'better late than never' has become such a cliché.
generalization

Generalization is used when making a broad statement or conclusion that applies to many instances, but often without sufficient evidence. It can be neutral but may sometimes carry a negative sense if it leads to misunderstandings.

  • It's a generalization to say that all cats are aloof pets.
  • We should avoid making generalizations about people based on their appearance.
prejudice

Prejudice is used when referring to a preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience. It often has a strong negative connotation and is associated with unjust behavior and discrimination.

  • Prejudice against people from different cultures should be actively addressed and eliminated.
  • Her actions showed a clear prejudice against people with disabilities.

Examples of usage

  • Gender stereotypes are still prevalent in society.
  • Breaking free from cultural stereotypes can be challenging.
  • People should not be judged based on stereotypes.
Context #2 | Noun

psychological

A standardized mental picture that is held in common by members of a group and that represents an oversimplified opinion, affective attitude, or uncritical judgment.

Synonyms

bias, label, stigma.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stereotype

This word is often used when discussing oversimplified and generalized beliefs or images about a group of people or things. It suggests that these beliefs are not necessarily based on reality and can lead to unfair judgments.

  • There's a common stereotype that all teenagers are rebellious
  • The movie reinforced stereotypes about gender roles
bias

Bias refers to a tendency to favor one thing, person, or group over another, often in an unfair way. It is frequently used in discussions about prejudice and partiality.

  • The study showed bias in the hiring process
  • Her personal bias affected her judgment
stigma

Stigma carries a strong negative connotation and is used to describe social disapproval or discrimination against a person or group based on certain characteristics, often leading to exclusion or shaming.

  • Mental illness still carries a stigma in many communities
  • There is a stigma associated with asking for help
label

Label is used when someone assigns a specific tag or category to a person or thing. It might not always be negative, but it can lead to stereotyping or pigeonholing.

  • They labeled him as a troublemaker without getting to know him
  • She hated being labeled as shy

Examples of usage

  • Stereotypes can impact how individuals perceive themselves.
  • Being aware of stereotypes can help prevent discriminatory behavior.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Cognitive bias plays a significant role in stereotype formation, influencing the way we perceive and interpret social information.
  • Stereotypes can lead to prejudicial behavior, which is often based on unfounded assumptions rather than personal experience.
  • The 'stereotype threat' refers to the fear of confirming negative stereotypes about one's group, which can actually affect performance.

Pop Culture

  • Stereotypes are often portrayed in movies and TV shows, reinforcing certain images of different cultures and groups.
  • In the 1990s, the 'cool kid' and 'nerd' stereotypes were popularized, influencing youth culture and social dynamics.
  • 'The Simpsons' and 'South Park' often use stereotypes humorously to critique societal norms, prompting audiences to reflect on these generalizations.

Society

  • Stereotypes can manifest in gender roles, affecting how individuals perceive duties and work, often limiting opportunities.
  • Cultural stereotypes can lead to misunderstandings, as people assume traits based on ethnicity rather than individual behaviors.
  • Efforts are ongoing in workplaces and media to challenge and dismantle harmful stereotypes by promoting diversity and inclusion.

Literature

  • Many authors, like Mark Twain and Harper Lee, have critiqued stereotypes in their works, showcasing the harm of preconceived notions.
  • In literature, breaking stereotypes can lead to complex characters and storylines that challenge societal views.
  • Novels often explore the consequences of stereotypes through characters that defy their social labels, encouraging deeper thinking.

Origin of 'stereotype'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'stereos' meaning 'solid' and 'typos' meaning 'impression' or 'mark'.
  • Originally, 'stereotype' referred to a printing plate that made multiple copies, showing how fixed and unchanging these ideas can be.
  • The term started being used to describe generalizations of people in the early 20th century.

The term 'stereotype' originated in the printing industry, where a 'stereotype plate' was a solid plate of type metal cast from a papier-mâché or plaster mold taken from the surface of a forme of type. The meaning evolved to represent fixed or conventional notions or images, especially of a group of people. Stereotypes can be harmful as they oversimplify complex individuals and lead to discrimination.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,238, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.