marginalize

Friendly

Word: Marginalize

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: To marginalize means to treat a person or a group of people as if they are not important or valuable. It often involves pushing them to the edges of society or making them feel excluded.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: You can use "marginalize" when talking about social issues, such as discrimination, inequality, or exclusion of certain groups (like the poor, minorities, or disabled individuals).
• How to use: The verb "marginalize" can be used in various tenses. For example:
  • Present: "They marginalize those who are different."
  • Past: "Historically, many groups have been marginalized."
  • Future: "If we are not careful, we will continue to marginalize certain voices."

Examples:

1. "We must not marginalize the poor in our society; everyone deserves a chance to succeed."
2. "The new policies could marginalize small businesses and make it hard for them to compete."

Advanced Usage:

• You can use "marginalize" in more complex sentences to discuss specific contexts, such as politics or social justice. For example: "The legislation was criticized for its potential to marginalize vulnerable communities."

Word Variants:

• Marginalization (noun): The process of marginalizing someone or a group.
  • Example: "The marginalization of certain communities can lead to social unrest."
• Marginalized (adjective): Describing people or groups that have been marginalized.
  • Example: "Marginalized groups often face challenges in accessing healthcare."

Different Meanings:

• While "marginalize" primarily refers to social exclusion, it can also mean to move something to a less important position in a different context, such as in discussions or debates.

Synonyms:

• Exclude
• Alienate
• Isolate
• Discriminate against
• Push aside

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "marginalize," but related phrases include:
  • "On the sidelines" (meaning not participating or being involved)
  • "Fall through the cracks" (meaning to be overlooked or neglected)

Summary:

"Marginalize" is an important word when discussing social issues. It highlights the need to recognize and include all members of society, ensuring that no one is pushed to the edges.

Academic

Verb

1. relegate to a lower or outer edge, as of specific groups of people
   • We must not marginalize the poor in our society

Synonyms

• marginalise