The phrase "discriminated against" is spelled with the following IPA symbols: /dɪˈskrɪmɪneɪtɪd əˈɡɛnst/. The first syllable, "di," is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a stressed "skri" with a long "i" sound. The last two syllables, "mi-nay-ted" and "ə-gest," are pronounced with short schwa sounds followed by "nay-ted" and "ə-gest" with a short "e" and "ə" sound respectively. This phrase refers to someone who has been unfairly treated or excluded based on their race, gender, or other characteristics.
The term "discriminated against" refers to a form of unfair treatment or bias faced by an individual or a group of people based on certain characteristics such as race, gender, religion, age, nationality, disability, or any other protected category. The act of being discriminated against involves being subjected to differential treatment and prejudice, resulting in disadvantages, limitations, or the denial of certain rights, opportunities, or benefits.
Discrimination can manifest in various forms, including but not limited to exclusion, harassment, segregation, unequal pay, denial of employment or housing opportunities, unequal access to education or healthcare, and systemic or institutional biases. Discrimination can be overt, such as explicit derogatory remarks or actions, or covert, taking the form of subtle biases or unconscious prejudices that influence decision-making processes.
Being discriminated against can have profound effects on an individual's well-being, self-esteem, and social standing. It not only hampers personal development but also perpetuates inequality and social injustice. Laws and policies have been enacted in many countries to protect individuals or groups from being discriminated against, promoting equal rights and opportunities for all. The fight against discrimination aims to create inclusive societies where every individual is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness, irrespective of their personal traits or characteristics.
The word "discriminated against" does not have a specific etymology by itself, as it is a phrase made up of two words, "discriminated" and "against". However, the etymology of the individual words can shed light on the meaning and origin of the phrase.
1. Discriminated: The word "discriminate" comes from the Latin word "discriminare", which means to distinguish or differentiate. Its root is derived from the Latin word "discrimen", meaning a difference or distinction. Over time, the meaning of "discriminate" has evolved to refer to the unfair treatment or prejudice against certain individuals or groups based on factors such as race, gender, or religion.
2. Against: The word "against" derives from the Old English word "gegen", which means "opposite" or "before".