persecution - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
persecution Word Meanings
- the act of persecuting someone, especially for their beliefs
- severe oppression or harassment
- persistent annoyance
persecution Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
persecution Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/pɜː.sɪˈkjuː.ʃən/
US
/ˌpɜr.sɪˈkjuː.ʃən/
persecution Word Etymology
Persecution: per- = through + secutio = follow. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Image: Imagine a relentless hunter tracking their prey through thick woods, symbolizing the constant chase and torment faced by those persecuted.
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
Persecution refers to the act of treating someone cruelly or unfairly specifically because of their beliefs, identity, or status. It can be carried out by individuals, groups, or state institutions, and it often spans a period rather than a single incident. In modern usage, the term emphasizes sustained oppression, harassment, or the denial of basic rights such as freedom of worship, speech, or assembly. Persecution is different from ordinary disagreement or conflict; it implies a pattern of mistreatment directed at a protected characteristic like religion, ethnicity, or political opinion. Common collocations include religious persecution, political persecution, and persecution of journalists, refugees, or minorities under oppressive regimes.
Usage Reminders
- Understand that persecution is sustained mistreatment, not a single insult.
- Learn the common collocations: religious persecution, political persecution.
- Distinguish persecution from harassment or oppression in everyday use.
- Note that it often targets protected characteristics (religion, ethnicity, beliefs).
- Use in formal contexts (historical events, human-rights reports).
- Pronounce per-se-cu-tion with the stress on -cu-tion.
Common Misconceptions
- Persecution is only about violence or crime.
- It only happened in the distant past.
- Persecution is the same as a strong personal grudge.
- It refers to general oppression, not targeting a protected group.
- Harassment and discrimination are the same as persecution.
Thinking Differences
Persecution in English is a strong, formal term that often implies a sustained pattern of mistreatment toward protected groups; learners may confuse it with general harassment or oppression, or misapply it to personal feuds.
Learning Tips
- Create contrast pairs: persecution vs harassment vs oppression.
- Learn common collocations: religious/political persecution.
- Distinguish between persecuting (verb) and persecution (noun).
- Use in academic or news contexts to see formal usage.
- Practice with historical events and human rights reports.
- Listen for stress patterns: per-SECU-tion.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'persecution'?
A.Feeling happy
B.Hostility and ill-treatment, especially because of race or political or religious beliefs
C.Persistent pursuit
D.Underground cave
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'persecution' correctly?
A.He enjoyed the persecution of others.
B.She felt persecuted by the beautiful weather.
C.The persecution was on the rise in the country.
D.Their persecution towards the speaker was unjust.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'persecution'?
A.Calm
B.Harassment
C.Contentment
D.Cheerful
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'persecution'?
A.Punishment
B.Envy
C.Celebration
D.Assistance
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would 'persecution' be relevant?
A.Religious conflict
B.Legal dispute
C.Birthday party
D.Sports competition
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