# systemic bias

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/systemic-bias
Updated: 2026-08-02

## Definition

a type of unfairness that is built into the rules and habits of an organization or society. It means some groups of people are treated worse than others, even if no one is trying to be mean on purpose.

For teachers: prejudice or discrimination that is embedded within the structures, policies, and practices of social or institutional systems. It functions independently of individual intent, often perpetuating historical inequalities through standardized procedures.

## Examples

- The report found systemic bias in how the bank gives out loans.
- Activists are calling for a review of the hiring process to identify and remove any systemic bias against minority candidates.
- Scholars argue that systemic bias within the judicial framework often results in disparate sentencing outcomes for defendants from marginalized socioeconomic backgrounds.

## Usage notes

- usually functions as an uncountable noun phrase in sociological and political contexts.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'individual prejudice' to help students understand that systemic bias refers to the machine or the system rather than a single person's feelings.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.