The phrase “be privileged” is commonly used in everyday language, but what does it really mean? Being privileged is often associated with having advantages or benefits that others do not have. However, the definition and meaning of being privileged can vary depending on the context and the individual’s perspective.
Definitions
To be privileged means to have a special advantage or benefit that is not available to everyone. It can also refer to having a higher social status or position of power. In some cases, being privileged can imply a sense of entitlement or superiority over others.
Origin
The word “privileged” comes from the Latin word “privilegium,” which means a law or right granted to an individual or group. The term was first used in the 14th century to describe the special rights and exemptions granted to the nobility and clergy in medieval Europe.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, being privileged means having “a special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “having or enjoying one or more privileges,” while Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “having a special advantage or opportunity that most people do not have.”
Associations
Being privileged is often associated with wealth, education, and social status. It can also be linked to race, gender, and other factors that can give individuals an advantage in society. In some cases, being privileged can be seen as a negative trait, implying a lack of empathy or understanding for those who do not have the same advantages.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for being privileged include advantaged, favored, fortunate, and blessed. These words all imply a sense of having an advantage or benefit that others do not have.
Antonyms
Antonyms for being privileged include disadvantaged, underprivileged, oppressed, and marginalized. These words describe individuals or groups who do not have the same advantages or opportunities as others.
The same root words
The root word “privilege” can also be used as a verb, meaning to grant a special right or advantage to someone. Other related words include “privy,” which means having knowledge of something confidential or secret, and “privatize,” which refers to transferring ownership or control of something from the public sector to the private sector.
Example Sentences
- “As a white male, I am aware of the privileges that come with my identity.”
- “She was born into a wealthy family and has always had a privileged upbringing.”
- “The company’s executives have access to privileged information that is not available to other employees.”
- “We need to work towards creating a more equitable society that does not privilege certain groups over others.”
- “The government’s decision to privatize healthcare has led to a privileged few receiving top-quality care while others struggle to access basic services.”