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Stereotyping: meaning, definitions and examples

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stereotyping

 

[ ˈstɛr.i.oʊ.taɪ.pɪŋ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

social context

Stereotyping refers to the act of oversimplifying and generalizing the characteristics, attributes, and behaviors of a particular group of people. This often leads to distorted perceptions and can contribute to prejudice and discrimination. Stereotypes can be based on various factors like race, gender, age, or occupation.

Synonyms

categorization, generalization, typecasting.

Examples of usage

  • Stereotyping can negatively affect workplace dynamics.
  • The media often perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
  • Challenging stereotypes is essential for social progress.
Context #2 | Verb

social behavior

To stereotype is to view or present a group of people in an oversimplified way. This action can lead to unfair judgments and can inhibit true understanding and appreciation of individual differences within that group.

Synonyms

carding, labeling, pigeonholing.

Examples of usage

  • We should avoid stereotyping individuals based on their background.
  • Stereotyping can create barriers to acceptance.
  • He's always stereotyping people without knowing their stories.

Translations

Translations of the word "stereotyping" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estereotipagem

🇮🇳 stereotypes

🇩🇪 Stereotypisierung

🇮🇩 stereotipisasi

🇺🇦 стереотипізація

🇵🇱 stereotypizacja

🇯🇵 ステレオタイプ化

🇫🇷 stéréotypage

🇪🇸 estereotipado

🇹🇷 stereotipleme

🇰🇷 고정관념화

🇸🇦 تعميم

🇨🇿 stereotypizace

🇸🇰 stereotypizácia

🇨🇳 刻板印象化

🇸🇮 stereotipizacija

🇮🇸 stereótípísering

🇰🇿 стереотиптеу

🇬🇪 სტერეოტიპიზაცია

🇦🇿 stereotipləşdirmə

🇲🇽 estereotipación

Etymology

The term 'stereotype' originates from the printing process of the 19th century, where 'stereotype' referred to a solid plate used for printing. The word derives from the Greek 'stereos', meaning 'solid', and 'typos', meaning 'impression'. This printing technique allowed for the mass reproduction of images and texts, creating a rigid, unchanging representation. The application of the term evolved in the mid-20th century when social psychologists began using it to describe the fixed and oversimplified ideas about groups of people. Over time, 'stereotyping' has taken on a more negative connotation as it highlights the dangers of reducing complex individuals to mere caricatures based on superficial traits. This shift in meaning underscores the broader societal issues that arise from unchecked biases and promotes discussions around the importance of authenticity and individuality in social interactions.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,432, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.