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Racism

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. As a noun: Prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against individuals or groups based on their race or ethnicity, often rooted in the belief that one race is superior to another.
2. As a system: The systemic oppression or marginalization of racial groups, perpetuated by societal, institutional, or cultural practices.

History and Origin

The term “racism” combines “race” (from the Italian razza, meaning lineage or breed) and the suffix “-ism,” denoting a belief or practice. It emerged in the early 20th century to describe ideologies and practices rooted in racial superiority, though its underlying concepts have existed throughout history, particularly in colonial, imperial, and slave-trading contexts.

Detailed Explanation

Racism is a multifaceted concept involving individual beliefs, attitudes, and systemic structures that reinforce inequality and discrimination based on race. It manifests in various forms, including overt acts like hate speech, subtle biases, and institutional practices that disadvantage specific racial groups. Racism is both a social and historical construct, often perpetuated through stereotypes, segregation, and unequal access to resources. Addressing racism involves education, awareness, and systemic reform to promote equity and inclusion.

Example Sentences

1. Racism has no place in a fair and just society.
2. The organization works to combat racism and promote equality.
3. She experienced racism while applying for jobs due to her ethnicity.
4. Laws against racism aim to ensure equal treatment for all citizens.
5. Historical examples of racism include segregation and slavery.
6. Racism often arises from ignorance and fear of differences.
7. Many movements today aim to address systemic racism.
8. The speech highlighted the harmful effects of racism on society.
9. Racism not only hurts individuals but also weakens communities.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Prejudice: An unjust opinion or attitude formed without reason or knowledge.
2. Discrimination: Unfair treatment based on race, gender, or other differences.
3. Bigotry: Intolerance toward those who are different or hold different views.
4. Xenophobia: Fear or hatred of people from other countries or cultures.
5. Segregation: The enforced separation of racial groups.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Ethnocentrism: Belief in the superiority of one’s own ethnic group.
2. Stereotype: Oversimplified and generalized beliefs about a group.
3. Privilege: Unearned advantages enjoyed by a dominant group.
4. Oppression: Systematic mistreatment of marginalized groups.
5. Disparity: A significant difference in treatment or opportunity among groups.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Systemic racism: Institutional practices that disadvantage certain racial groups.
2. Colorism: Prejudice based on skin tone within the same racial or ethnic group.
3. Racial profiling: Targeting individuals based on racial characteristics.
4. Equality: The opposite of racism, promoting fairness and justice for all races.
5. Inclusivity: Efforts to include diverse racial and ethnic groups in all aspects of society.

Antonyms

1. Equality
2. Inclusivity
3. Fairness
4. Tolerance
5. Justice