WordGarden.iopersecution
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /pˌɜːsɪkjˈuːʃən/
US
- /ˌpɜrsəkˈjuʃən/
Meanings
Noun
systematic cruel or unjust treatment of a person or group, especially for their beliefs or identity
Beyond the definition
Persecution is not just being disliked or treated unfairly once. It is when a person or group is repeatedly harmed, punished, or targeted because of their beliefs, identity, or way of life. Imagine people being attacked for following a different religion, speaking a different language, or holding unpopular views: that is persecution. It goes beyond simple prejudice because it involves active cruelty and oppression. Throughout history, many groups have faced this kind of treatment, and the word carries a strong sense of injustice and suffering.
Persecution refers to the systematic and prolonged mistreatment of someone because of their identity or beliefs. It's not just isolated incidents of unkindness; it's a pattern of hostility, oppression, and often violence directed towards individuals or groups due to characteristics like religion, ethnicity, political views, sexual orientation, or social status.
The roots of the word come from Latin persequi, meaning "to pursue relentlessly." This hints at the relentless nature of persecution – it doesn't simply happen once, but continues over time, often with the intent to suppress or eliminate the targeted group.
Historically, persecution has taken many forms: exile, imprisonment, torture, forced conversion, and even genocide. Think of the Huguenots fleeing France in the 17th century due to religious persecution, or the Roma people facing centuries of discrimination and violence across Europe. Even today, we see examples of persecution against minority groups in various parts of the world.
While "discrimination" involves unfair treatment, persecution goes further – it implies a deliberate attempt to harm, suppress, or destroy. It's a powerful word that highlights severe injustice and human rights violations. Understanding the meaning of persecution is crucial for recognizing its dangers and advocating for tolerance and equality.
Examples
- 1
Religious persecution
Many families left the country to escape religious persecution.
- 2
Journalists
The report described the persecution of journalists who criticized the government.
- 3
Asylum claim
She applied for asylum because she feared persecution for her political beliefs.
- 4
Old regime
The community still remembers years of persecution under the old regime.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Persecution complex
He acts as if everyone is against him, but it may just be a persecution complex.
- Phrasepersecution complex
a strong feeling that people are always treating you unfairly, even when they are not
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- repression
- discrimination
- witch hunt
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- religious persecution
- political persecution
- fear of persecution
- persecution of minorities
Word family
Explore
- human rights abuse
- asylum
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- persecutionnoun
Forms
- persecutionspluralnoun