racism Definition
- 1prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's own race is superior
- 2the belief that all members of each race possess characteristics or abilities specific to that race, especially so as to distinguish it as inferior or superior to another race or races
Using racism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "racism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The organization is committed to fighting racism in all its forms.
Example
Racism has no place in our society.
Example
She experienced racism firsthand when she was denied a job because of her skin color.
Example
The book explores the history of racism in America.
racism Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using racism
a coded message that appears innocent on the surface but is designed to appeal to racist sentiments
Example
The politician's speech was filled with racist dog whistles that only his supporters could hear.
Example
I know my grandfather has his faults, but I truly believe he doesn't have a racist bone in his body.
Example
Some politicians are accused of playing the race card to avoid addressing real issues.
Phrases with racism
a form of racism that is embedded as normal practice within society or an organization
Example
Systemic racism is often invisible to those who benefit from it.
discrimination or prejudice against people who are members of a dominant or majority group, especially when resulting from policies established to correct discrimination against members of a minority or marginalized group
Example
Some argue that affirmative action programs are a form of reverse racism.
the acceptance of racial stereotypes and biases about one's own ethnic group, leading to a negative self-image and self-hatred
Example
Internalized racism can have a damaging effect on mental health and well-being.
Origins of racism
from French 'racisme', based on the word 'race'
Summary: racism in Brief
'Racism' [ˈreɪsɪzəm] refers to prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's own race is superior. It can also refer to the belief that all members of each race possess characteristics or abilities specific to that race. Examples include being denied a job because of skin color and the history of racism in America. Phrases like 'systemic racism' and 'internalized racism' describe different forms of racism, while idioms like 'a racist dog whistle' and 'to play the race card' refer to coded messages and tactics used to appeal to racist sentiments.