Demonization - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Demonization is the act of portraying someone or something as evil, dangerous, or threatening, often unfairly or exaggeratedly, to provoke fear or hatred. It is commonly used in politics and media.
Definition:
Portraying someone or something as evil or threatening, often unfairly.
Synonyms:
vilification, stigmatization, defamation
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
glorification, praise
Common Collocations:
political demonization, media demonization, public demonization
Derivatives:
demonize, demonizing, demonized
Usage Tips:
Use "demonization" to describe unfair negative portrayal, often in politics or media contexts.
Common Phrases:
"demonization campaign, " "demonization of opponents, " "media demonization"
Etymology:
Derived from "demon," from Greek "daimon," meaning spirit or deity, later associated with evil.
Examples:
- 1. The media's demonization of the group led to widespread fear.
- 2. Politicians often use demonization to discredit their rivals unfairly.
- 3. Demonization of minorities can fuel discrimination and violence in society.
- 4. Her speech warned against the dangers of corporate demonization by activists.