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privilege

noun

/ˈprɪv(ɪ)lɪdʒ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of privilege

A special advantage, right or benefit that is given to a particular group or individual.
"His wealth gave him a privilege that others didn't have."

Detailed meaning of privilege

It can be based on factors such as wealth, race, gender, social status or education. Privilege can be inherited or acquired and can affect various aspects of life, such as access to education, healthcare, job opportunities and legal protections. It can also lead to unequal treatment and opportunities for those who do not possess the same privileges. The term is often used in discussions of social justice, particularly in reference to addressing and dismantling systems that perpetuate privilege for some and disadvantage for others. Overall, privilege refers to a set of advantages and benefits that are available to certain people, often at the expense of others who do not share those same advantages.

Example sentences containing privilege

1. The privilege of attending the prestigious university came with a high price tag.
2. She recognized the privilege of being born into a supportive family.
3. The politician's privilege allowed him to avoid consequences for his actions.
4. The job opening was only available to those with the privilege of a college degree.
5. The company's policies showed a clear bias towards employees with privilege.
6. The privilege of being able to travel abroad was a dream for many people.

History and etymology of privilege

The noun 'privilege' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'privilegium,' which is a combination of 'privus,' meaning 'private' or 'individual,' and 'lex,' meaning 'law.' In Latin, 'privilegium' referred to a special law or legal right that granted a specific advantage to an individual or group. As this concept transitioned into Old French as 'privilege' and later into Middle English, it retained its core meaning of a special advantage, right, or benefit that is given to a particular group or individual, often as a result of their status, position, or circumstances. The etymology of 'privilege' underscores its historical association with the idea of private laws or rights that set certain individuals or groups apart, emphasizing the notion of special advantages or benefits that may not be accessible to everyone.

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Further usage examples of privilege

1. The legal system favored those with privilege, often at the expense of marginalized groups.
2. The privilege of owning a home was out of reach for many due to high housing costs.
3. The artist used her platform to call attention to issues of privilege and inequality.
4. The privilege of freedom of speech was protected by the constitution.
5. The awareness of one's privilege was an important step towards promoting equality.
6. Access to education is a privilege that not all enjoy.
7. He acknowledged the privilege of being born in a stable family.
8. With privilege comes responsibility and accountability.
9. Equal opportunities should replace unearned privileges.
10. The conference offered valuable networking privileges.
11. Economic privilege often leads to disparities in society.
12. Voting is both a right and a privilege in democracies.
13. We must strive to eliminate racial privilege.
14. Her wealth afforded her many privileges in life.
15. The country's leaders abused their privileges.
16. Freedom of speech is a cherished privilege.
17. Access to clean water should be a basic privilege.
18. We should never take our privileges for granted.
19. He recognized the privilege of having a supportive community.
20. The job comes with certain perks and privileges.
21. Privilege often blinds people to others' struggles.
22. With privilege comes a duty to give back to society.
23. The privilege of living in a peaceful country is priceless.
24. The ceremony celebrated their academic privileges.
25. He used his privilege to advocate for positive change.