Definition

1. Noun:
   • Stubborn and complete intolerance of any creed, belief, or opinion that differs from one's own: "Bigotry" refers to the state of mind of a bigot, characterized by obstinate, unreasonable, or blind attachment to a particular belief, opinion, or faction, and intolerance toward those who hold different views.
   • The actions, prejudices, or biases resulting from such an intolerant attitude: It also denotes the practice or manifestation of this intolerance, often taking the form of discrimination or prejudice.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • His speech was condemned for promoting hatred and bigotry.
  • We must fight against the bigotry that divides our community.
  • Religious bigotry has no place in a modern, pluralistic society.

Advanced Usage

• "The bigotry of low expectations": A phrase describing a patronizing attitude where low expectations are held for a person or group based on a stereotype (e.g., race, class), which is itself a form of prejudice.
  • The policy was criticized as an example of the bigotry of low expectations.

Variants and Related Words

• Bigot (n): A person who is obstinately or intolerantly devoted to his or her own opinions and prejudices, especially one who regards or treats members of a group with hatred and intolerance.

  • He was labeled a bigot for his hateful comments.

• Bigoted (adj): Having or revealing an obstinate belief in the superiority of one's own opinions and a prejudiced intolerance of the opinions of others.

  • She held bigoted views that were offensive to her colleagues.

Synonyms

• Intolerance: Unwillingness to accept views, beliefs, or behavior that differ from one's own.
• Prejudice: Preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience, often leading to unfair treatment.
• Dogmatism: The tendency to lay down principles as undeniably true, without consideration of evidence or the opinions of others.
• Sectarianism: Excessive attachment to a particular sect or party, especially in religion, often leading to conflict with others.

Related Phrases

• "Blind bigotry": Emphasizes the unreasoning and unthinking nature of the intolerance.
  • The conflict was fueled by generations of blind bigotry.

Related Idioms

• "To be steeped in bigotry": To be thoroughly imbued with or characterized by intolerant attitudes.
  • The old regime was steeped in religious bigotry.

Noun

1. the intolerance and prejudice of a bigot