The word ‘discriminatory’ (adjective) refers to actions, policies, or behaviors that show bias or prejudice against individuals or groups, often leading to unfair treatment. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use ‘discriminatory’ correctly in sentences.
Discriminatory Explained in Depth
A complete and practical guide to the word Discriminatory, including meaning, definition, etymology, synonyms, antonyms, and examples you can use in everyday writing.
Meanings of Discriminatory
‘Discriminatory’ describes conduct that treats people unfairly based on characteristics like race, gender, age, religion, or other protected traits. It points to an unjust or prejudiced distinction made between different categories of people, and it often implies an imbalance of opportunity or access.
Definition
Discriminatory (adjective): showing or involving an unfair or prejudicial distinction between different categories of people or things, especially on the grounds of race, age, gender, or religion.
Etymology
The word ‘discriminatory’ comes from the Latin root discriminare, meaning “to divide or distinguish.” It developed through the verb ‘discriminate,’ and the adjective form began appearing in English in the early 19th century to describe prejudicial treatment or unfair distinctions.
Example Sentences
- The company’s hiring practices were found to be discriminatory against older applicants.
- They filed a lawsuit over discriminatory policies at their workplace.
- Discriminatory laws were repealed in favor of more inclusive legislation.
- Gender-based pay gaps can be a form of discriminatory behavior.
- Any discriminatory remarks will not be tolerated in this classroom.
- That decision seems discriminatory because it treats applicants unequally without a clear reason.
Discriminatory Synonyms
- Prejudiced
- Biased
- Unfair
- Inequitable
- Unjust
- Discriminating
- Exclusionary
- Partial
- Unequal
- Bigoted
Discriminatory Antonyms
- Fair
- Unbiased
- Equitable
- Inclusive
- Impartial
- Just
- Objective
- Balanced
- Neutral
- Open-minded
FAQs about Discriminatory
Here’s a FAQ-style guide about the word “discriminatory” that covers common questions readers search for.
1. What are common forms of discriminatory behavior?
Discriminatory behavior can include racism, sexism, ageism, religious intolerance, and unequal treatment in education or employment, such as blocking access or offering fewer opportunities to specific groups.
2. Is ‘discriminatory’ always negative?
In modern usage, yes. ‘Discriminatory’ usually has a negative connotation because it relates to injustice, prejudice, or unfair treatment.
3. Can institutions be discriminatory?
Yes. Laws, policies, or systems can be described as discriminatory if their rules or outcomes create unfair treatment of certain groups.
4. What’s the difference between ‘discriminate’ and ‘discriminatory’?
‘Discriminate’ is a verb that can mean to distinguish or make fine differences; ‘discriminatory’ is an adjective that describes biased or unjust actions.
5. How do you pronounce ‘discriminatory’?
It is pronounced /dɪˈskrɪmɪnəˌtɔːri/ or /dɪˈskrɪmənəˌtɔːri/.
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Similar Words to Know
If you’re comparing meaning, it can help to distinguish prejudiced attitudes from biased judgment, and then from actual unfair outcomes. You may also find related vocabulary like inequitable and disrespectful useful when writing about behavior that affects people differently.
