dehumanise Definition
- 1to treat someone as if they are not human, and do not have the same feelings or rights as other people
- 2to take away the individuality or personality of someone or a group of people, making them seem less than human
Using dehumanise: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dehumanise" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The prisoners were dehumanized by being forced to wear uniforms and having their heads shaved.
Example
The media often dehumanizes people by portraying them as stereotypes.
Example
The use of derogatory language can dehumanize individuals and groups.
dehumanise Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for dehumanise
Antonyms for dehumanise
Phrases with dehumanise
work that is physically or mentally harmful and makes people feel like they are not valued or respected
Example
The long hours and low pay made the job feel dehumanizing.
treatment that is cruel, inhumane, and violates basic human rights
Example
The refugees were subjected to dehumanizing treatment at the border.
dehumanizing effects
negative effects on mental health and well-being caused by being treated as less than human
Example
The constant bullying had dehumanizing effects on the victim.
Summary: dehumanise in Brief
To dehumanize [dɪˈhjuːmənaɪz] is to treat someone as if they are not human, taking away their individuality or personality. This can be done through derogatory language, stereotypes, or physical appearance. The term is often used in the context of human rights violations, such as the dehumanizing treatment of refugees. 'Dehumanizing work' refers to work that is physically or mentally harmful and makes people feel undervalued.