boycott

//ˈbɔɪkɒt//

Nouns
B2

Translation

boycott

Definition

A boycott is a deliberate and organized refusal to engage with a person, organization, country, or product as a form of protest or to achieve a specific goal. This action is typically taken to express disapproval of policies, practices, or behaviors, often with the aim of applying economic or social pressure to force change. For example, consumers might boycott a company that uses unethical labor practices, or a group might boycott an event to highlight a political issue. The term can also be used as a verb, meaning to participate in such a refusal. Boycotts are a nonviolent form of activism and have been used throughout history in civil rights movements, labor disputes, and international relations.

Example

  • Many people decided to boycott the company after its environmental violations were exposed.

  • The student group called for a boycott of classes to protest the new tuition fees.

  • During the civil rights movement, activists organized a boycott of the city's bus system.

  • Some countries imposed a boycott on goods from the region to condemn human rights abuses.

  • She refused to buy their products as part of a personal boycott against unfair labor practices.

  • The union urged its members to boycott the company's products until fair wages were negotiated.

  • A widespread boycott of the film led to a significant drop in ticket sales.

  • They organized a boycott of the conference to draw attention to the lack of diversity among speakers.

  • The boycott lasted for several months before the company agreed to change its policies.

  • Social media campaigns can quickly mobilize a boycott against a brand that behaves unethically.

Synonyms

embargo
sanction
protest
blacklist
ban

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