microaggressions
[ˌmaɪ.kroʊ.əˈɡrɛʃ.ənz]
nounfemininepl: microagressões
microagressões
1. Brief, everyday slights, insults, or invalidations directed at individuals based on their identity (race, gender, sexuality, etc.), often unintentional or subtle in nature
The professor's microaggressions toward students of color included consistently mispronouncing their names.
As microagressões do professor em relação aos alunos de cor incluíam pronunciar consistentemente mal seus nomes.
2. Cumulative harmful interactions that reinforce stereotypes and contribute to systemic discrimination
Microaggressions in the workplace can create a hostile environment and affect mental health.
As microagressões no local de trabalho podem criar um ambiente hostil e afetar a saúde mental.
3. Comments, questions, or behaviors that seem innocuous but communicate negative or derogatory messages to marginalized groups
Asking someone 'Where are you really from?' can be considered a microaggression.
Perguntar a alguém 'De onde você é realmente?' pode ser considerado uma microagressão.
The term 'microaggressions' emerged prominently in US academic discourse in the 2010s and has become central to discussions about workplace diversity, education, and social justice. In Brazil, the concept is increasingly recognized in discussions about racism and discrimination, though the term is more recently adopted. The concept reflects growing awareness of how systemic discrimination operates through accumulated small incidents rather than only overt acts. In both cultures, the term has become subject to debate regarding definitional boundaries and impact assessment.
NYC Slang
low-key disrespect, subtle shade, passive-aggressive behavior
Related Idioms & Phrases
death by a thousand cuts (similar concept of cumulative harm)
reading between the lines (understanding hidden messages in microaggressions)
backhanded compliment (a type of microaggression)
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