Privilege Meaning
Privilege Definition & Usage
A special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group.
Examples
- "Being born into a wealthy family can provide many privileges that others do not have access to."
- "Access to quality education is a privilege that not everyone can afford."
- "He enjoyed the privilege of being the CEO’s son, which gave him an advantage in his career."
- "She realized that her ability to travel the world was a privilege, not a right."
- "It is important to acknowledge the privileges that come with being born in a developed country."
A special benefit or right granted by law to an individual or group, especially in legal proceedings.
Examples
- "The lawyer claimed attorney-client privilege to protect the confidentiality of their conversation."
- "Certain communications between a doctor and patient are protected under medical privilege."
- "The company invoked its privilege to avoid releasing certain documents in court."
- "The diplomat’s immunity granted them a privilege that kept them from prosecution in foreign courts."
- "Legal privilege ensures that some sensitive information is not disclosed during trials."
To grant a special right or advantage to someone.
Examples
- "The system privileges those who can afford the best education."
- "This policy privileges people with experience over fresh graduates."
- "The job benefits were designed to privilege employees who worked in senior positions."
- "Her position in the company privileges her with more responsibilities."
- "The law privileges certain groups with tax breaks."
Cultural Context
The concept of privilege has been widely discussed in modern social sciences, especially in the context of race, gender, and economic class. The term gained popularity in academic discourse, particularly with discussions about white privilege and social inequality. Privilege, in this sense, is often invisible to those who benefit from it and can be a source of tension when awareness of it arises.
The Privilege of Choices
Story
The Privilege of Choices
Sophie sat in the café, stirring her coffee absentmindedly. She had always been aware of the privilege that came with her upbringing. Growing up in a family that could afford private schooling and international vacations, she knew her life had been different from many others. Her friend Maya, sitting across from her, had shared stories of struggling with tuition fees and working part-time jobs since high school. Their lives, though intertwined, felt worlds apart. Maya had recently joined an advocacy group, which focused on educating people about recognizing their privilege and using it for social good. Sophie had resisted the idea at first, but over the past few months, she had begun to see things differently. "I never realized how much my privilege has shaped my opportunities," Sophie confessed. "I was born with privileges I took for granted, while many others have to fight for the same chances." Maya smiled, recognizing the shift in her friend. "Acknowledging privilege is the first step," she said. As they continued to talk, Sophie realized that privilege was not just about wealth or status. It was about the choices available to people based on their circumstances. The conversation shifted to how they could both contribute to positive change, with Sophie feeling motivated to use her position to make a difference. Privilege, she realized, was not just a right—it was a responsibility. As they finished their drinks, Sophie felt empowered, not because of the privileges she had, but because of the actions she could take to make the world a more equitable place.
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