Synonyms for

Stereotype

Verb / ˈsteri:ʌˌtaɪp / / ˈsteri:əʊˌtaɪp / Another word for stereotype — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing.

Synonyms & similar words

pigeonhole stamp cliché label typecast prejudice generalization bias assumption convention notion stigma custom tradition formula oversimplification

Synonyms by register

Formal

generalization oversimplification cliché convention

Informal

typecast label mold box

Literary

caricature effigy trope

Antonyms

individuality originality uniqueness diversity open-mindedness nuance

Common collocations

  • break a stereotype
  • challenge a stereotype
  • racial stereotype
  • gender stereotype
  • common stereotype
  • negative stereotype
  • avoid stereotypes

Word family

noun stereotype
verb stereotype
adjective stereotyped

Usage note

The word 'stereotype' often carries a negative connotation, implying an oversimplified and often prejudiced view of a group. It is important to be mindful of this when using the term.

Example sentences

  1. The stereotype that all Asians are good at math is not true for everyone.
  2. The stereotype that boys can't cry is harmful and unrealistic.
  3. The stereotype that all cats hate water is not true for all cats.
  4. The stereotype that all blondes are dumb is offensive and untrue.
  5. The stereotype that all elderly people are weak is a harmful generalization.

Quotes

  • Stereotypes are devices for saving a biased person the trouble of learning.
  • Stereotypes lose their power when the world is found to be more complex than the stereotype would suggest.
  • Stereotypes exist because they are a way of simplifying the world and making it more manageable.

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