Ostracizing

Ostracizing refers to the act of excluding someone from a group or society, often through social shunning, deliberate exclusion, or rejection. It involves isolating an individual and denying them access to social interactions, resources, or opportunities. This behavior aims to punish, control, or express disapproval of the targeted person's actions, beliefs, or characteristics. ostracizing can range from subtle forms of exclusion to outright banishment and can have severe psychological and social consequences for the ostracized individual, leading to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and diminished self-worth. This can be performed by people or by an institution, such as a government or a corporation. This social phenomenon has been seen throughout history, and has been seen to be performed by individuals, groups and entire societies. It's the act of socially excluding someone for any given reason.

Ostracizing meaning with examples

• Following the scandal, the community began ostracizing the former politician. Friends distanced themselves, businesses refused service, and even family members found it difficult to interact. The once-prominent figure was left isolated, enduring a painful experience of social rejection and loneliness. The subtle rejection was a direct response to actions that were deemed unacceptable.
• The clique at school started ostracizing Sarah when they found out she had a different opinion on a topic they were discussing. They excluded her from group projects, ignored her in the hallways, and spread rumors. Sarah suffered from depression and struggled to fit in as a result, facing the pain of exclusion from her peers, all based on a difference of opinion.
• In many workplaces, whistleblowers often face ostracizing from their colleagues and superiors. They may be excluded from important meetings, overlooked for promotions, or subject to hostile work environments. This social pressure discourages people from reporting unethical behavior, leading to harmful consequences and a culture of silence in the workplace. The environment can be very difficult.
• The villagers chose to ostracizing anyone who practiced a different religion. These individuals were denied access to the marketplace, barred from community events, and faced constant harassment. Their homes and land were seized. This social exclusion, often based on fear and prejudice, led to the displacement and suffering of innocent people. This was all due to their religious beliefs.