noun / verb
privilege
PRIV-uh-lij/ˈprɪvəlɪdʒ/
A special advantage or entitlement available to particular people.
The wristband gives its wearer the privilege of passing through the staffed barrier.
Etymology
An “individual law” originally applied to a particular person, whether favorably or adversely. The favorable sense—especially exemption from a general law—developed into a special right or advantage.
In context
the federal government giving taxpayer money to a university is a is a privilege and not a right.
More examples
- She recognizes the privilege that comes with her family's wealth.
- Only managers have the privileges needed to edit these files.
- These tax rules privilege wealthy investors over ordinary workers.
Forms
privilege · privileges · privileged · privileging
privileged adjective — Having advantages unavailable to most other people.
Similar words
- advantage
- Any favorable condition, not necessarily a special right or entitlement.
- entitlement
- Emphasizes a recognized right rather than a favorable social position.
- prerogative
- Usually a special right attached to an office or role.