ENGLISH
REFERENCE

homophobic

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌhoʊməˈfoʊbɪk// UK //hˌɒməfˈəʊbɪk// ho·mo·pho·bic Humorous

adj. showing a dislike or fear of people who are gay. It describes behavior or attitudes that are unfair to the LGBTQ+ community.

adj. characterised by an irrational fear, hatred, or prejudice toward individuals who are or are perceived to be gay, lesbian, or bisexual. Often describes systemic or individual hostility based on sexual orientation.


SIMPLE

The company has strict rules against homophobic comments.

CONTEXTUAL

Activists are working to change homophobic laws that prevent certain people from getting married.

COMPLEX

The documentary explores how homophobic rhetoric in the media can negatively impact the mental health and safety of young people in rural communities.

Origin

From homo- (“homosexual”) + -phobic.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem'.

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