bigotry
What does "bigotry" mean?
Bigotry refers to the obstinate or unreasonable attachment to a belief, opinion, or faction, particularly in the context of prejudice against people who are different from oneself. The mental image is of someone closing their mind tightly, like a door being slammed shut, to prevent any conflicting information or perspectives from entering. It is a strong, negative term used to describe intolerance, often related to race, religion, or social identity. Because it carries a heavy moral weight and implies an irrational stubbornness, it is typically used in formal or serious discourse to condemn discriminatory behavior rather than in casual conversation.
"bigotry" in conversation
Discussing a news report
Did you see the article about the town hall meeting? The level of bigotry on display was shocking.
Did you see the article about the town hall meeting? The level of bigotry on display was shocking.
It’s incredibly disheartening. I thought we were moving past that kind of thinking.
It’s incredibly disheartening. I thought we were moving past that kind of thinking.
Used here to describe a collective attitude observed in a public setting.
Reflecting on historical progress
History shows that systemic change is the only way to dismantle institutional bigotry.
History shows that systemic change is the only way to dismantle institutional bigotry.
Do you think education alone isn't enough to change those mindsets?
Do you think education alone isn't enough to change those mindsets?
Used in an academic context to describe deep-seated structural issues.
"bigotry" in a sentence
He spoke out against the bigotry he witnessed in his neighborhood.
He spoke out against the bigotry he witnessed in his neighborhood.
The organization was founded with the mission to combat bigotry and promote social inclusion.
The organization was founded with the mission to combat bigotry and promote social inclusion.
Her refusal to engage with different cultures was a clear manifestation of deep-seated bigotry.
Her refusal to engage with different cultures was a clear manifestation of deep-seated bigotry.
