What does "misogyny" refer to?

The term "misogyny" specifically refers to a deep-seated dislike or hatred of women. It encompasses a range of negative attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors towards women that can manifest in various forms, including discrimination, violence, and devaluation. Understanding that misogyny is fundamentally about hostility helps clarify its implications in social, cultural, and personal contexts.

The other choices are distinct in their meanings: respect for women indicates positive regard, indifference suggests a lack of concern or interest, and advocacy for women's rights involves actively supporting equality and justice for women. Each of these options represents a different relationship to women that doesn’t align with the concept of misogyny, highlighting the significance of recognizing misogyny as a harmful and socially pertinent issue.