The word discriminate is spelled with a "c" and not a "s" because it is derived from the Latin word discriminare, which means "to distinguish or differentiate." The "c" is pronounced as /k/ and the "i" as /ɪ/ in IPA phonetic transcription, resulting in the pronunciation of /dɪsˈkrɪmɪneɪt/. Discrimination is a concept that refers to the unfair or unjust treatment of people based on their characteristics such as race or gender, and it is important to spell and pronounce the word correctly to avoid misunderstandings.
The term discriminate can be defined as the act of making distinctions or differentiated judgements based on specific characteristics or qualities. It can refer to both positive and negative discernment, depending on the context.
When used positively, discrimination involves the ability to perceive and recognize subtle differences or variations among individuals, objects, or ideas. In this sense, discriminating individuals possess a keen sense of observation, analyzing details meticulously in order to determine fine distinctions or qualities that often go unnoticed by others.
However, the term primarily carries a negative connotation, often associated with unfair treatment or prejudice. Discrimination in this sense involves distinguishing between individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, gender, religion, nationality, or age and treating them unfavorably or unjustly. It may involve prejudiced beliefs, attitudes, or actions that result in the denial of rights, opportunities, or privileges to certain individuals or groups.
This negative form of discrimination is considered unjust and promotes social inequality. It is important to distinguish between discrimination and fair judgement based on valid factors such as skills, qualification, or personal achievements. Discrimination based on innate or unchangeable qualities is widely condemned by human rights organizations as it undermines equality, diversity, and inclusiveness in society. Efforts to combat discrimination aim to create a more just and equitable world where everyone is treated with dignity and fairness, irrespective of their differences.
To observe and mark the difference between; to distinguish, as by some note or mark; to make a difference or distinction.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "discriminate" is derived from the Latin word "discriminare", which means "to distinguish" or "to differentiate". It comes from the root word "discrimen", which means "a distinguishing mark" or "a difference". Over time, the Latin term was borrowed into English, and the meaning evolved to include the concept of making distinctions or judgments based on differences, both in a positive and negative sense.