favoritism
UK: ˈfeɪvərɪtɪzəm | US: ˈfeɪvərɪtɪzəm
n. the practice of giving unfair preferential treatment to one person or group at the expense of others.
The word "favoritism" originates from the Latin "favor" (meaning kindness or preference), combined with the suffix "-ite" (indicating a person associated with something, borrowed from French) and "-ism" (a suffix denoting a practice or system, from Greek "-ismos"). The term evolved in English to describe the biased practice of favoring certain individuals, often unjustly. The morphemes reflect a logical progression: "favor" (preference) + "-ite" (one who receives it) + "-ism" (the system of such behavior).
The manager was accused of favoritism after promoting his nephew over more qualified employees.
Favoritism in grading can undermine students' trust in the education system.
The team's morale suffered due to the coach's blatant favoritism toward star players.
Corporate policies should prevent favoritism to ensure fair opportunities for all employees.
Her favoritism toward certain clients led to complaints from others who felt neglected.