privilege
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈprɪvɪlɪdʒ/
KK: /ˈprɪvɪlɪdʒ/
noun
Definition
A special advantage or right that is given to a person or group, allowing them to have benefits that others do not.
Example
Having access to the best education is a privilege that not everyone enjoys.
Conversation
I really think it's a privilege to have access to education.
Absolutely, not everyone gets that opportunity.
It's important to recognize that privilege comes in many forms.
For sure, we should appreciate what we have and help others too.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
advantage
right
benefit
Antonyms
disadvantage
burden
penalty
transitive verb
Definition
To give someone a special right or advantage that others do not have.
Example
The company decided to privilege its loyal customers with exclusive discounts.
Tense Forms
Past: privileged
Past Participle: privileged
Conversation
I think it’s a real privilege to have such supportive friends.
Absolutely, not everyone is that lucky.
It makes a big difference when you feel valued.
Root Explanation
Privilege → It is formed from "privus" (meaning private or individual) and "legere" (meaning to choose or to read). The word originally referred to a law or a right that was specific to an individual or a private person, thus indicating a special advantage or benefit.
Memory Tip
Think of 'private' ('privus') rights that are 'chosen' ('legere') for an individual — that's how privilege means a special right or advantage.
Visually Confused Words
reprivilege
unprivileged
proprivilege
disprivilege