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Historical & Current Events dictionary results for model minority

model minority

American  
[mod-l mahy-nawr-i-tee, -nor-] / ˈmɒd l maɪˈnɔr ɪ ti, -ˈnɒr- /

noun

  1. a minoritized racial, ethnic, religious, or social group, or a member of such a group, that is stereotypically viewed by the dominant group as being more successful or embodying traits more valuable to society than other such groups or individuals.

    Paradoxically, Asian Americans are perceived as both a model minority—happier, more successful, and more educated—and as perpetual foreigners.


Etymology

Origin of model minority

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

She reflects on what he can show us about the scourge of the model minority myth.

From Slate • Nov. 9, 2023

Was that a deliberate choice to resist this kind of model minority, perfect character?

From Salon • May 16, 2023

“His first segment with @kalpenn and Ji-Young is all about confidence, something I personally feel can help unravel the model minority stereotype.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 11, 2023

“Beef” drives the Asian American model minority myth off a cliff.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 17, 2023

In “Peerless,” ruthless competition and the toxicity of the model minority myth are among the issues addressed.

From New York Times • Nov. 4, 2022

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