Unit 15. Social Inequality

Word

Definition

Example

amend

to alter for the better

MPs were urged to amend the law to prevent another oil tanker disaster.

biased

leaning unfairly in one direction

It's fair to say many articles written about young people are extremely biased.

burden

something that is carried; a source of stress or worry

Students leave colleges already with a big financial burden

counter

to act in opposition to

To counter the inaccuracies in the movie, researchers used computer models to project climate changes.

de facto

in fact doing a job, even if not officially

If it is on British soil then it is de facto British.

discriminate

to make a clear distinction

It is illegal to discriminate against a person because of their race, religion or gender.

notion

a fanciful belief

He has all kinds of strange notions.

oppress

to keep down by force

For years now, the people have been oppressed by a ruthless dictator.

paradigm

a set of assumptions

Some of these educators are hoping to produce a change in the current cultural paradigm.

prejudiced

causing to judge unfairly

Many adults are prejudiced against young people and don't give them a chance.