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Stereotyped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stereotyped

[ˈsteriəˌtaɪpt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

common

Lacking originality or individuality; following a pattern or set of expectations. Conforming to a fixed or general pattern, as behavior or attitudes.

Synonyms

clichéd, conventional, predictable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stereotyped

This word appears twice but has the same meaning as the first entry, describing something that follows an oversimplified and fixed idea.

  • The portrayals of the characters were stereotyped and lacked originality
  • Her comments were based on stereotyped notions about the region
conventional

Used to describe something that adheres to traditional standards and norms, often implying safety and lack of innovation.

  • The design of the house is very conventional, with nothing out of the ordinary
  • She prefers wearing conventional dresses to stand out less
predictable

Used when something can be easily foreseen without any surprises, often leading to boredom.

  • The plot of the movie was so predictable that I guessed the ending in the first ten minutes
  • His actions have become quite predictable lately
clichéd

Used for ideas, phrases, or themes that are overused and lack original thought, often sounding trite.

  • The ending of the story was clichéd and unsatisfying
  • His speech was filled with clichéd expressions

Examples of usage

  • He had a stereotyped image of what a successful businessman should look like.
  • She felt trapped in a stereotyped role that society had assigned her.
  • The movie presented a stereotyped view of relationships between men and women.
Context #2 | Verb

past tense

Characterized by a formulaic and oversimplified conception, opinion, or image. To believe unfairly that all people or things with a particular characteristic are the same.

Synonyms

label, pigeonhole, stigmatize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stereotyped

Use this when referring to something that is an oversimplified and often unfair image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. This generally has a neutral to negative connotation.

  • The media often presents a stereotyped view of teenagers.
  • She was tired of being put into a stereotyped role at work.
pigeonhole

This word is used when categorizing someone or something too rigidly or narrowly, limiting possibilities and usually with a negative connotation.

  • They pigeonholed him as a technical person, ignoring his creative talents.
  • I don't want to be pigeonholed into a specific genre.
label

This is appropriate when assigning a name or category to someone or something in a simplistic way. It can have neutral, but often negative implications depending on context.

  • It's unfair to label her as just a troublemaker.
  • People often label others without knowing their full story.
stigmatize

Employ this word when referring to the act of treating someone in a way that makes them feel ashamed or disapproved, usually with a very negative connotation.

  • Society should not stigmatize individuals with mental health issues.
  • People are often stigmatized because of their backgrounds.

Examples of usage

  • She stereotyped all teenagers as troublemakers based on one bad experience.
  • He was stereotyped as a lazy worker because of his appearance.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Stereotyping is a form of cognitive bias that simplifies the complexities of individual personalities by grouping them into categories.
  • Research shows that stereotypes can lead to 'confirmation bias,' where people notice evidence that supports their view while ignoring contradictory information.
  • The process of 'stereotyping' can affect interpersonal relationships, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts between groups.

Social Justice

  • Stereotypes can contribute to social inequities, as they often lead to discrimination and prejudice against marginalized groups.
  • Efforts like 'diversity training' and 'anti-bias workshops' aim to challenge stereotypes and promote awareness of individual differences.
  • Stereotyping can have real-life consequences, affecting job opportunities, mental health, and community relations.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies and TV shows play with stereotypes for comedic effect, often highlighting their absurdity while also reinforcing them.
  • In the advertising industry, stereotyped images are frequently critiqued for perpetuating unrealistic standards about beauty, lifestyle, and gender roles.
  • Social media has sparked both the spread of stereotypes and movements to dismantle them, fueling debates on representation and identity.

Literature

  • Classic literature often uses stereotypes to develop characters, as readers can quickly identify traits that represent broader social groups.
  • Modern authors challenge stereotypes by creating complex characters that defy societal expectations, promoting deeper understanding.
  • Several critical essays explore how literature reflects and shapes stereotypes, illustrating societal norms and biases across different eras.

Origin of 'stereotyped'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek words 'stereos' meaning solid, and 'typos' meaning impression, referring to solid impressions about groups.
  • Initially used in the printing industry, where a 'stereotype' referred to a solid plate used to reproduce images or text identically.
  • The concept evolved in the early 20th century to describe rigid views of social groups, particularly in sociology.

The term 'stereotyped' originates from the Greek word 'stereos,' meaning solid or firm, and 'typos,' meaning impression. In the 18th century, it was initially used in the printing industry to refer to a plate that could be used to reproduce the same image or text multiple times. Over time, the term evolved to describe fixed or unoriginal ideas or perceptions.

See also: stereotypically.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,831, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.