noun

affirmative action

uh-FUR-muh-tiv AK-shun

Affirmative action (noun) means a policy of actively favouring people from groups that have historically faced discrimination, especially in university admissions, hiring and government contracting, in order to increase their representation. Example: “The university defended its affirmative action programme as a way of widening access.”

noun

chiefly North American A policy of actively favouring people from groups that have historically faced discrimination, especially in university admissions, hiring and government contracting, in order to increase their representation.

"The university defended its affirmative action programme as a way of widening access."

"Critics argue that affirmative action penalises applicants who had nothing to do with past discrimination."

How to use affirmative action

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishGiving a deliberate leg-up to groups that have been shut out in the past.

When to use it

A neutral term in law and policy writing, but politically loaded in everyday debate; choose it deliberately.

Memory tip

It is always two words and is not hyphenated, even before a noun: an affirmative action case.

Easily confused with

positive action positive discrimination diversity quota

Common pairings

affirmative action policy affirmative action programme ban affirmative action affirmative action in admissions

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The university defended its _____ programme as a way of widening access.

Synonyms

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positive discrimination positive action preferential treatment equal opportunity policy

Rhymes for affirmative action

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between affirmative action and positive discrimination?

They describe the same broad idea, but the labels differ by country and carry different legal weight. 'Affirmative action' is the American term for lawful measures that favour under-represented groups, while 'positive discrimination' is the British term and is generally unlawful in the UK, where only 'positive action' such as targeted outreach and tie-break selection is permitted.

Is affirmative action still legal in the United States?

It depends on the context. In 2023 the US Supreme Court ruled that race-conscious admissions programmes at universities were unconstitutional, though applicants may still discuss how race has affected them personally. Other forms of affirmative action, such as federal contracting goals and outreach programmes, remain in place.

Does affirmative action only apply to race?

No. Affirmative action programmes have covered sex, disability and veteran status as well as race and ethnicity. In practice, university admissions policies attracted the most attention, but employment and contracting rules are the older and wider application.

What is the meaning of affirmative action?

"affirmative action" (noun) means a policy of actively favouring people from groups that have historically faced discrimination, especially in university admissions, hiring and government contracting, in order to increase their representation.