ostracism - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
ostracism Word Meanings
- Exclusion from a group or society.
- Being ignored or shunned by others.
- A form of social punishment or rejection.
ostracism Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
ostracism Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɒstrəsɪzm/
US
/ˈɑstrəˌsɪzəm/
ostracism Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'ostracon' (a shell) + suffix '-ism'. Historical origin: From Greek 'ostrakismos' → Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a group of people writing names on pieces of shell to vote someone out, showcasing the sharp pain of social rejection that lingers like a broken shell.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Ostracism is a powerful human behavior: the sustained, deliberate exclusion of a person from a group’s conversations, activities, and decisions. Historically, it referred to a formal practice in ancient Athens where citizens voted to banish someone for a period of time, a reminder that social punishment can be institutional as well as informal. In everyday life, ostracism feels like a cold shoulder: a friend or team stops inviting you, conversations fade, and your input is ignored. For learners, the key distinction is that ostracism implies intentional, prolonged rejection rather than a single disagreement or momentary discomfort.
Usage Reminders
- Ostracism is a noun, not a verb. Use with from or by depending on context. It implies sustained social punishment, not just a disagreement. Distinguish from simple exclusion or ignoring. Common collocations include social ostracism and ostracism from the group. Prefer formal or literary contexts when using ostracism.
Common Misconceptions
- Ostracism = mere petty dislike or a single argument; it is not just a momentary feeling.
- Ostracism is the same as simple exclusion from a task or activity.
- Ostracism only belonged to ancient Athens and does not occur today.
- Ostracism requires explicit, formal punishment or banishment.
- Ostracism always involves others and cannot happen to a person alone.
Thinking Differences
English learners should note that ostracism connotes a strong, deliberate social punishment beyond a single disagreement; many learners confuse it with mere exclusion or dislike and default to verb forms like 'to exclude' rather than the heavier noun form.
Learning Tips
- Learn the noun form and related verb ostracize
- Note collocations: ostracism from the group, social ostracism
- Differentiate from simple exclusion or ignoring
- Use in formal, literary, or psychological contexts
- Practice with real-life scenarios and readings
- Watch for tone: ostracism carries a negative, punitive nuance
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'ostracism'?
A.A popular restaurant
B.A type of dance
C.A form of social exclusion
D.A medical term for fatigue
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'ostracism' correctly?
A.He experienced ostracism after being excluded from the group.
B.The team celebrated their victory with an ostracism dinner.
C.Her ostracism skills were unmatched in the competition.
D.The city was known for its ostracism of tourists.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'ostracism'?
A.Excitement
B.Celebration
C.Isolation
D.Connection
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'ostracism'?
A.Inclusion
B.Detachment
C.Separation
D.Rejection
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might experience social exclusion?
A.A community event that everyone attends
B.A student being left out during lunch
C.A team that works well together
D.A gathering of friends celebrating a birthday
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