C1nounformalpoliticshistory
US/ˌpɜːr.səˈkjuː.ʃən/
UK/ˌpɜː.sɪˈkjuː.ʃən/
cruel and unfair treatment of people, especially because of their religion, race or political beliefs
In context
Many families fled to other countries to escape religious persecution.
The journalist asked for protection abroad because she feared persecution at home.
The exhibition remembers the persecution of minorities during the war.
Words that go with persecution
adjective + noun
- religious persecutionThe colony was founded by people fleeing religious persecution.
- political persecutionHe left the country to avoid political persecution.
noun + preposition
- fear of persecutionRefugees must show a real fear of persecution to receive protection.
verb + noun
- escape persecutionHer grandparents traveled across Europe to escape persecution.
- face persecutionActivists who speak out often face persecution from the authorities.