Synonyms for

Persecution

Verb / ˌpɜ:sʌˈkju:ʃʌn / Another word for persecution — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the act of treating someone unfairly or cruelly because of their beliefs or background

Synonyms & similar words

oppression discrimination harassment intolerance bigotry hate bias prejudice maltreatment injustice tyranny cruelty abuse mistreatment unfairness censure ostracism exclusion alienation rejection

Synonyms by register

Formal

oppression harassment maltreatment affliction

Informal

hassling picking on giving someone a hard time

Literary

tribulation anguish torment

Antonyms

support favor aid help encouragement protection benevolence

Common collocations

  • religious persecution
  • political persecution
  • persecution complex
  • persecution of minorities
  • endure persecution
  • face persecution
  • suffer persecution

Word family

noun persecution
verb persecute
adjective persecutory

Usage note

Persecution often implies systematic and prolonged mistreatment, especially due to religious or political beliefs. It carries a strong negative connotation of injustice and cruelty.

Example sentences

  1. The persecution of witches in the 17th century was a dark time in history.
  2. Religious persecution still exists in some countries today.
  3. He faced persecution for his political beliefs.
  4. The persecution of Jews during the Holocaust was a tragic event.
  5. Persecution based on race or ethnicity is unacceptable.

Quotes

  • Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.
  • I believe in the equality of man; and I believe that religious duties consist in doing justice, loving mercy, and endeavoring to make our fellow-creatures happy.
  • The ultimate test of a moral society is the kind of world that it leaves to its children.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words