KNOW THE DIFFERENCE
Words get thrown around a lot. Sometimes correctly, sometimes not. This glossary breaks down what they mean, where they differ, and what they can look like in real life.
Browse by topic
Browse A–Z
Bias
Where Harm Starts
A leaning for or against someone or something that affects how you judge them, even if you don't notice it.
Example
Assuming a man will be better at a technical job than a woman.
Bigotry
When Language Becomes Harm
Strong hostility toward people because of the group they belong to, often refusing to respect or accept them.
Example
Saying people of a certain religion shouldn’t be allowed in your community.
Dehumanization
When Language Becomes Harm
Talking about people as if they aren't fully human, often by comparing them to animals, pests, or diseases.
Example
Calling a group “animals,” “vermin,” or a “disease.”
Discrimination
Where Harm Starts
Treating someone unfairly because of who they are or the group they belong to.
Example
Denying someone housing because they’re gay.
Dog Whistle
When Language Becomes Harm
A phrase that sounds ordinary to many people but sends a hidden message to people who understand the code.
Example
Using coded language about a racial group without naming the group directly.
Harassment
When Language Becomes Harm
Repeated or severe unwanted behavior meant to scare, humiliate, threaten, or wear someone down.
Example
Repeatedly sending someone abusive messages after they’ve told you to stop.
Hate Speech
When Language Becomes Harm
Words or messages that attack people or stir up hatred against them because of their race, religion, gender, sexuality, or other identity.
Example
Saying an entire racial group is inferior.
Microaggression
Where Harm Starts
A comment or action that carries a biased message about someone's identity, even if the person saying or doing it didn't mean harm.
Example
Asking an American person of color, “Where are you really from?”
Prejudice
Where Harm Starts
Deciding something negative about someone before you know them, based on a group they belong to.
Example
Deciding someone is dangerous because of their religion.
Racism
Where Harm Starts
Treating people as less worthy because of their race. It can show up in personal actions or in systems.
Example
Refusing to hire someone because they’re Black.
Slur
When Language Becomes Harm
An insulting word used to put someone down because of their race, religion, sexuality, or another part of who they are.
Example
Using a racist or homophobic insult toward someone.
Stereotype
Where Harm Starts
Assuming everyone in a group is the same or has the same traits.
Example
“All Asian people are good at math.”
No matching terms found.