Victimize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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victimize

[ˈvɪktɪˌmaɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

injustice

To make someone suffer unfairly, especially because of their race, religion, or beliefs. It can also refer to making someone a victim of a crime or deception.

Synonyms

abuse, exploit, oppress, target.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
victimize	Use this word when referring to situations where someone is unfairly treated or made to suffer. She felt victimized by the unfair accusations The bullying at school victimizes vulnerable students
exploit	This term is appropriate when someone takes selfish or unfair advantage of another person or situation for their own benefit. The company exploited its workers by making them work long hours without overtime pay She felt exploited by her friend's constant demands for help
abuse	This word is used when someone treats another person cruelly or violently, especially on a regular basis. It carries a strong negative connotation. He was abused by his parents throughout his childhood Workplace harassment can constitute abuse
oppress	This word is used when talking about prolonged cruel or unjust treatment, often by a group or authority towards another group or individual. The dictator oppressed the citizens by limiting their freedoms Minority groups were oppressed for many years under the regime
target	Use 'target' when someone is deliberately chosen for something, often negative, such as criticism, attacks, or scams. The hackers targeted the company's database She felt targeted by the constant gossip

Examples of usage

He felt victimized by the discrimination he faced at work.
She was victimized by a scam artist who took advantage of her trust.
The vulnerable population was victimized by the corrupt government officials.
The media often victimizes certain groups by portraying them in a negative light.
The victimized community came together to seek justice.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

criminal act

To commit a crime against someone, causing them harm or loss. It can involve physical, emotional, or financial harm.

Synonyms

assault, defraud, mug, prey on.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
victimize	Using unfair tactics to harm or take advantage of someone, often repeatedly over time. It is often used in legal or psychological contexts. Bullies tend to victimize weaker students. He felt victimized by the unfair policies at work.
prey on	Exploiting or taking advantage of someone's weaknesses or vulnerabilities, often in a manipulative or deceitful manner. Scammers prey on elderly people who may not be familiar with internet scams. The lion preys on smaller animals in the wild.
assault	Physically attacking someone. It may also be used in a legal context where it refers to the crime of physically attacking someone. The man was charged with assault after the bar fight. She was a victim of a brutal assault.
defraud	Tricking or deceiving someone to gain money or something valuable. Often used in financial or legal contexts. They were accused of trying to defraud the insurance company. The scammer defrauded elderly people out of their savings.
mug	Attacking and robbing someone in a public place. Generally implies a sudden, violent action on the street. He was mugged while walking home late at night. The police are investigating a series of muggings in the area.

Examples of usage

The burglars victimized several households in the neighborhood.
The cybercriminals victimized innocent internet users.
Fraudsters often victimize vulnerable individuals for financial gain.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

In psychological terms, victimization can be a serious problem, leading to trauma and mental health issues.
The 'victim mentality' describes a state of mind where someone sees themselves as a victim, even in situations where they are not.
Being victimized can lead to feelings of powerlessness, impacting an individual's self-esteem and outlook on life.

Sociology

Victimization can be systemic, where certain groups face unfair treatment due to race, gender, or socioeconomic status.
Social movements often address victimization, advocating for rights and protections for marginalized communities.
The perception of who is a victim can be influenced by cultural narratives and societal values.

Legal Studies

In legal contexts, victimization is addressed through laws that protect individuals from harm and provide compensation.
Victim rights movements play a crucial role in advocating for the support and recognition of those who have been harmed.
Court systems recognize the impact of victimization, often allowing victims to speak on their behalf during trials.

Pop Culture

Films and books often explore themes of victimization, featuring protagonists who must overcome unjust circumstances.
In music, many artists address feelings of being victimized, using their experiences to empower others and raise awareness.
Reality TV shows sometimes dramatize scenarios of victimization, sparking discussions about ethics and treatment in competitive environments.

Origin of 'victimize'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'victimus' which means 'to conquer' or 'to defeat'.
It was first used in English in the early 20th century, blending the idea of making someone a victim from earlier words.
The suffix '-ize' means 'to make', so together the term describes the action of creating victims.

The word 'victimize' originated in the late 19th century from the noun 'victim,' which comes from the Latin word 'victima,' meaning 'sacrificial animal.' Over time, 'victimize' evolved to describe the act of making someone a victim of injustice or crime. The concept of victimization has been studied in various fields, including criminology and sociology, to understand the impact of victimization on individuals and communities.

See also: victimization, victimized, victims.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,726, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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35724 sidling
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