Definition

Noun: 1. Opposition to feminism; belief in the superiority of men over women: Antifeminism refers to ideologies, arguments, or activities that are opposed to feminist principles, often based on the belief that men are inherently superior to women or that traditional gender roles should be preserved.

Usage

Antifeminism is used to describe a social or political stance. It is typically discussed in contexts related to gender studies, sociology, and political discourse. - It functions as an uncountable noun when referring to the general ideology or movement. - It can be used attributively to modify other nouns (e.g., antifeminism rhetoric).

Examples

• The politician's speeches were marked by a clear strain of antifeminism.
• Her research paper analyzed the historical roots of antifeminism in the early 20th century.
• The online forum was a hotbed for antifeminism and misogynistic views.

Advanced Usage

• Institutional Antifeminism: Refers to policies, laws, or established practices within organizations or governments that systematically oppose gender equality.
  • The new law was criticized as a form of institutional antifeminism.
• Antifeminism as a Backlash: Often discussed as a reactive movement against advances in women's rights.
  • The rise of antifeminism in the 1980s is frequently analyzed as a backlash to second-wave feminism.

Variants and Related Words

• Antifeminist (noun): A person who holds antifeminist beliefs.
  • He was labeled a prominent antifeminist for his controversial writings.
• Antifeminist (adjective): Characterized by or expressing opposition to feminism.
  • The group published an antifeminist manifesto.

Synonyms

• Male chauvinism: A prejudiced belief in the superiority of men.
• Misogyny: Dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against women. (Note: This is a stronger, more hatred-based term.)
• Sexism: Prejudice, stereotyping, or discrimination, typically against women, on the basis of sex.

Antonyms

• Feminism: The advocacy of women's rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes.
• Egalitarianism: The doctrine that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities.

Noun

1. activity indicative of belief in the superiority of men over women