VocabDictionary

prejudice

/ˈprɛdʒʊdɪs/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.

Example Sentences:
  • Society must work hard to overcome racial and gender prejudice.
  • His comments revealed a deep-seated prejudice against people from rural areas.
2.noun

Harm or injury that results from some action or judgment.

Example Sentences:
  • The decision was made without prejudice to future negotiations.
  • Any delay in signing the contract could work to our prejudice.
3.verb

To influence someone so as to cause them to have an unfair or unreasonable prejudice.

Example Sentences:
  • The sensational news coverage could prejudice the jury.
  • Such biased remarks are likely to prejudice people against our cause.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “prejudice”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'praeiudicium', formed from 'prae-' (before) + 'iudicium' (judgment). Originally a legal term in ancient Rome meaning a previous judgment or a precedent, it later evolved in Old French and Middle English to signify a judgment made before sufficient knowledge or examination, especially one that is unfavorable or biased.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of it as 'pre-' (before) + 'judge' (to form an opinion). You are judging someone before you know them.

Frequently Asked Questions About “prejudice

1. What is the meaning of “prejudice” in English?

In English, prejudice (noun) is defined as: “Preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.”.

2. How do you use “prejudice” in a sentence?

Society must work hard to overcome racial and gender prejudice.

3. What are English synonyms of “prejudice”?

Common synonyms include:bias,bigotry,discrimination,intolerance

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “prejudice”?

Derived from the Latin 'praeiudicium', formed from 'prae-' (before) + 'iudicium' (judgment). Originally a legal term in ancient Rome meaning a previous judgment or a precedent, it later evolved in Old French and Middle English to signify a judgment made before sufficient knowledge or examination, especially one that is unfavorable or biased.