prejudice

//ˈprɛdʒədɪs//
B2Frequency Level 9Neutral
Visual representation of prejudice

Noun

prejudiceSingular
prejudicesPlural
1

An unfavorable opinion or feeling formed beforehand or without knowledge, thought, or reason

We must overcome prejudice and judge people fairly.

2

Unreasonable feelings, opinions, or attitudes, especially of a hostile nature, regarding an ethnic, racial, social, or religious group

We must fight against racial prejudice in our society.

3

Harm or injury that results or may result from some action or judgment

The court ruled without prejudice to either party's rights.

Verb

1

To cause someone to have a prejudice against something or someone; to bias

The negative media coverage prejudiced many people against the new policy.

2

To cause harm or injury to; to damage or impair

The scandal could prejudice his chances of winning the election.