Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Marginalise
verb
/ MAR-jih-nuh-lyz /
Easy
Meaning
To relegate a person, group, or issue to a less important or peripheral position in society, the economy, or political discourse
Origin / Etymology
Latin marginalis (of the margin) + -ise (to make)
Synonyms
Sideline
Exclude
Disenfranchise
Peripheralise
Antonyms
Include
Mainstream
Integrate
Empower
Example Sentence
"Caste discrimination continues to marginalise Dalit communities in accessing formal credit markets, despite legal protections under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Essential for GS1 (social issues, vulnerable groups) and GS2 (inclusive governance). Key compounds: 'marginalised communities', 'double marginalisation' (women within minority communities), 'economic marginalisation'. Avoid the passive construction 'are marginalised' when you can use the active 'structures of power marginalise' — it shows causal understanding.
Relevant Subjects