What's the meaning of...

[Blabbermouth]

What's the meaning of the following expressions:
* Affirmative action (like in: It's time to take affirmative action...etc)
* Mingle (like in: I don't have time to go out and mingle...etc)

I've never really grasped the meaning of these expressions, so it would've been great if some of you would reply with the answer...

Thanks in advance

[Mister Micawber]

.
affirmative action

NOUN: A policy or a program that seeks to redress past discrimination through active measures to ensure equal opportunity, as in education and employment. The meaning is usually very specific these days, but it could mean more generally to take positive steps toward a solution of any problem.


mingle

INTRANSITIVE VERB: 1. To be or become mixed or united. 2. To join or take part with others: The faculty mingled with the trustees. In your sentence it means to socialize.
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[twostep]

Affirmative Action - US law governing dicrimination by race, color, sex, religion and national origin