stigma - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
stigma Word Meanings
- a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person
- a characteristic that sets someone apart negatively
- a social stigma attached to mental illness
stigma Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
stigma Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈstɪɡ.mə/
US
/ˈstɪɡ.mə/
stigma Word Etymology
stigma = mark/badge + -ma (noun suffix). Origin: Greek → Latin → English. Visualize a person marked with a tattoo of shame that they carry to recall past mistakes, representing social stigma.
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
Stigma is a powerful social label that marks someone as discredited or inferior because of a particular circumstance, quality, or condition. It operates at a collective level, shaping how others think, talk, and act toward the labeled person, not just an isolated moment of embarrassment. You will hear phrases like stigma attached to mental illness, or to a race, or to poverty. The noun also pairs with verbs like stigmatize and stigmatization, and you can describe policies or media as perpetuating stigma. Understanding this distinction helps you discuss prejudice without implying personal failure, making your English sound more precise in academic and everyday contexts.
Usage Reminders
- - Think of stigma as a social label, not a personal feeling.
- - Use phrases like stigma against, stigma attached to, or stigmatize.
- - Distinguish stigma from shame or guilt in conversations.
- - Learn stigmatization and stigmatizer as related forms.
- - Watch for media or policy contexts where stigma is discussed.
Common Misconceptions
- Stigma equals shame; they are the same thing.
- Stigma only affects people with mental illness, not society as a whole.
- Explaining your condition will instantly remove the stigma.
- Stigma is solely a personal issue, not a social one.
- Talking about stigma makes you sound rude.
Thinking Differences
In English, stigma is framed as a social label that can impact opportunities and attitudes. Learners often confuse it with personal shame or apply it too narrowly to mental illness, missing broader collocations like stigma against or stigmatization in policy or media contexts.
Learning Tips
- Learn the two main collocations: stigma against X and stigma attached to X.
- Know the verb: stigmatize, and the noun: stigmatization.
- Differentiate stigma from shame in meaning and usage.
- Study examples in media and academic writing.
- Practice with a variety of topics (mental health, race, poverty).
- Use passive constructions (is/are stigmatized) to describe groups.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'stigma'?
A.Mark of disgrace
B.Silly
C.Pattern
D.Brave
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'stigma' used correctly?
A.He received a medal for his stigma in the competition.
B.She felt proud of the stigma on her report card.
C.There is no stigma attached to seeking help for mental health.
D.The teacher praised the student for their stigma behavior.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'stigma'?
A.Shame
B.Honor
C.Respect
D.Courage
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an opposite of 'stigma'?
A.Approval
B.Reputation
C.Praise
D.Merit
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation might you encounter the concept of 'stigma'?
A.Job interview
B.Washing dishes
C.Walking in the park
D.Playing video games
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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