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privilege
This term carries a heavy social and political charge in contemporary discourse. It describes an invisible systemic advantage that benefits a person based on their identity or status, often without that person being consciously aware of the benefit.
In a more traditional or formal sense, it describes an honor or a rare opportunity. While the social sense can be critical or accusatory, the formal sense is typically used to express gratitude or humility when receiving a high honor.
Countable when referring to a specific legal right or a particular advantage, such as attorney-client privilege. Uncountable when referring to the general state of having systemic advantages in society.
Meanings
Examples
It is a privilege to meet the president.
The company privileges senior employees during the promotion process.
Phrasal Verbs
privilege over
to have a superior position or advantage compared to another
The ruling class enjoyed significant privilege over the peasantry.