Here are some synonyms for "marginalized" and their analyses:
1. Alienated
- Meaning: "Alienated" means to make someone feel isolated or estranged from a group, society, or the mainstream. For example, "The new policies alienated a large portion of the workforce." It emphasizes the emotional and social distance that is created, often as a result of being treated differently or excluded. Compared to "marginalized," "alienated" focuses more on the feeling of being pushed away or separated, rather than just being on the periphery.
2. Ostracized
- Meaning: "Ostracized" means to exclude or banish someone from a group or society. For example, "In ancient Greece, individuals could be ostracized for political reasons." It implies a more severe form of exclusion, where the person is deliberately cut off from social or group participation. While "marginalized" can refer to a more passive state of being on the edges, "ostracized" is a more active and forceful act of keeping someone out.
3. Excluded
- Meaning: "Excluded" means to be left out or not included. For example, "The children with disabilities were often excluded from regular sports activities." It emphasizes the act of not allowing someone to be part of a particular activity, group, or situation. Similar to "marginalized," "excluded" focuses on the lack of inclusion, but it may not always carry the connotation of being pushed to the margins in a more systemic or long - term way like "marginalized" does.
4. Isolated
- Meaning: "Isolated" means to be separated or set apart from others. For example, "The small community was isolated from the rest of the world due to geographical barriers." It emphasizes the physical or social separation. In the context of marginalization, "isolated" can describe the state of being cut off from opportunities, resources, or support systems, much like how marginalized groups are often distanced from the mainstream.
5. Disenfranchised
- Meaning: "Disenfranchised" means to be deprived of the right to vote or to have a say in a particular context, or more broadly, to be deprived of power or privilege. For example, "The disenfranchised groups had little influence on the political decision - making process." It emphasizes the loss of rights and power, which is a key aspect of marginalization. Marginalized groups often face disenfranchisement, being pushed to the side and having their voices and rights diminished.