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Boycott - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A boycott is a deliberate refusal to use, buy, or participate in something as a form of protest or to force change. It is often used to oppose unfair practices or policies.

boycott

/ˈbɔɪkɑt/ /ˈbɔɪkɒt/

Definition:

To refuse to buy, use, or participate in something as a form of protest.

Synonyms:

avoid, shun, reject, protest

Part of Speech:

verb, noun

Antonyms:

support, endorse

Common Collocations:

boycott products, boycott elections, boycott a company

Derivatives:

boycotter, boycotting

Usage Tips:

Use "boycott" when describing organized refusal to engage with something for political or social reasons.

Common Phrases:

call for a boycott, join the boycott, end the boycott

Etymology:

Named after Charles Boycott, an Irish landlord ostracized by his community in 1880.

Examples:

  • 1. The students decided to boycott the cafeteria food due to poor quality.
  • 2. Many people boycott companies that harm the environment.
  • 3. The union called for a boycott of unfair labor practices.
  • 4. She joined the boycott to protest animal testing.

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