what does prejudice mean

Prejudice means holding a preconceived, unfair, or unreasonable opinion or feeling—often hostile—toward an individual or group, formed without sufficient knowledge or justification. ([merriam-webster.com](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prejudice)) It can be used as a noun (the biased belief or feeling) or as a verb (to prejudice someone or something: to unfairly influence or harm their chances or reputation). ([merriam-webster.com](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prejudice)) In legal and formal contexts, prejudice can also mean injury to a person's legal rights or a final, binding court decision (for example, a case dismissed “with prejudice”). ([merriam-webster.com](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prejudice)) Teaching tip: contrast prejudice with a reasoned opinion—emphasize that prejudice is usually rooted in assumptions, stereotypes, or fear rather than evidence, and show learners concrete examples (e.g., deciding not to hire someone because of their age or background) so they can spot and challenge unfair judgments.