Quote
1. Quote - Listen to the quote and guess what the slang means.
“Logan looks like a movie that might break that glass ceiling. I know first hand that it’s amazing. I’ve seen some of it. It’s mind-blowing.”
—Actor Ryan Reynolds, speaking about superhero movie success (Variety)
Definition
1. Definition - Study the definition.
invisible but real barrier preventing success or accomplishment (usually for certain groups of people)
2. Use - Learn how the slang is used.
Ever seen the commercial where birds fly into a very clean window? Well, this is very close to a feeling we get in life sometimes. In work, school, or relationships, sometimes we feel like we hit a wall that we don’t see. These barriers are sometimes related to prejudices based on gender, race, or social class. In social science, this is called the glass ceiling.
We may be afraid to break the glass ceiling, but it’s necessary if we want to keep growing.
A glass ceiling can also be a general barrier to the success of something. Ryan Reynolds talks about how the Oscars have a bias against superhero movies. Since superhero movies are seen as much more commercial and superficial, they don’t get many Oscar nominations. Many fans think Reynolds’ Deadpool should be nominated for an Oscar; Reynolds thinks Logan is a serious and deep movie that should win an Oscar. Can these movies break the glass ceiling of prejudice?
How are you going to break the glass ceiling? What is your plan for success?
Examples
1. Examples - Hear some example sentences.
“Even though we’ve made a lot of progress, it is still difficult for women to break the glass ceiling.”
“Sometimes it’s necessary to find and break the glass ceiling to better yourself.”
“Even though Maria is a good fit for the job, she didn’t get it. We still need to break the glass ceiling in America.”