stigma

USAGE SUMMARY

"stigma" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to refer to a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person. For example, "The stigma of being an ex-convict made it difficult for him to find a job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mental health carries a huge social stigma across Africa and information booklets designed to help people with depression or mental health problems simply weren't working, especially in remote communities with high illiteracy rates.

The Guardian

"I want to address the stigma attached to young people in today's society.

The Guardian

We need to move beyond the stigma of "that time of the month" – women's feminine hygiene products should be free for all, all the time.

The Guardian - Opinion

Earlier this year, Jyoti Sanghera, chief of the UN Human Rights Office on Economic and Social Issues, called the stigma around menstrual hygiene "a violation of several human rights, most importantly the right to human dignity".

The Guardian - Opinion

It's dangerous, it divides communities and it creates stigma to people who are ill, and I think you ought to be ashamed of yourself," she told him, prompting the first applause of the evening.

The Guardian

While 91% of respondents found their work flexible and 56% found it rewarding, 71% experienced stigma and said they had lied about their job and lived in fear of being recognised.

The Guardian

Societal attitudes need to change in order to minimise the stigma underpinning sex work and consequently reduce the harm that prejudice has on sex workers.

The Guardian

As a result, people are now more aware of the effectiveness of existing treatments, the importance of community-based care, and the need to counter stigma.

The Guardian

"We want to reduce the stigma around mental ill health and encourage people to seek help as soon as they can.

The Guardian

We find it hard to talk about: unlike physical illness, it carries stigma and shame.

The Guardian

With strong stigma and lack of information, society leaves young girls to figure out reproductive health themselves.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To reduce the impact of stigma, use people-first language. For example, instead of saying "a stigmatized group," say "people who experience stigma".

Common error

While "stigma" is a powerful term, avoid overusing it in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "disgrace", "shame", or "disrepute" to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The word "stigma" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a mark of disgrace or infamy. Ludwig examples showcase its role in describing societal attitudes and perceptions, as seen in contexts like mental health, disease, and social status. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stigma" is a commonly used noun that refers to a mark of disgrace or infamy. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. The word appears frequently in News & Media, often to highlight the negative impacts of societal disapproval on individuals or groups. When using "stigma", it's important to consider the impact and ensure responsible and empathetic language. Alternatives such as "disgrace", "shame", or "disrepute" can be used to vary your writing and maintain reader engagement. The high source quality and consistent usage patterns contribute to a high expert rating. Understanding the connotations and societal implications of "stigma" is crucial for effective communication on sensitive topics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mark of disgrace

Replaces "stigma" with a more descriptive phrase emphasizing the disgraceful aspect.

social disgrace

Similar to "mark of disgrace", but with an emphasis on the societal aspect.

badge of shame

Substitutes "stigma" with a metaphor that highlights the shameful quality.

social disapproval

Replaces "stigma" with a more formal term emphasizing the societal aspect.

taint

A single-word alternative implying a negative influence or damage to reputation.

disrepute

A more formal synonym for "stigma", indicating a loss of good reputation.

odium

A strong word denoting intense hatred or dislike, similar to a severe stigma.

negative connotation

Highlights the negative association linked to something, similar to the effect of a stigma.

negative perception

Focuses on the unfavorable view that others have, which can create a stigma.

blemish

Implies a flaw or imperfection that damages one's reputation, akin to a stigma.

FAQs

How does the "stigma" surrounding mental health affect individuals?

The "stigma" surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking help, leading to isolation, delayed treatment, and a decreased quality of life. Overcoming this "negative perception" is crucial for promoting well-being.

What can I say instead of "stigma"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "disgrace", "shame", "mark of disapproval", or ""negative perception"".

How can we reduce the "stigma" associated with certain conditions?

Reducing the "stigma" involves education, promoting empathy, sharing personal stories, and advocating for policy changes that support affected individuals. Challenging stereotypes and fostering understanding are essential steps.

What's the difference between "stigma" and "prejudice"?

"Stigma" refers to a mark of disgrace or disapproval associated with a particular circumstance or quality, while "prejudice" is a preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience. "Stigma" often results from prejudice.