Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Lacking any system of government or control; characterized by a state of disorder due to the absence or nonrecognition of authority. This describes a condition where there is no effective governing power, leading to chaos or lawlessness.
   • Relating to or advocating the theory or practice of anarchism. This describes principles or actions that oppose hierarchical authority and promote a stateless, self-managed society.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • After the revolution, the country descended into an anarchical state for several months.
  • The protest was peaceful at first but turned anarchical when the police withdrew.
  • His political philosophy is deeply anarchical, rejecting all forms of centralized state power.

Advanced Usage

• "Anarchical tendencies": A phrase describing inclinations or behaviors that oppose or undermine established order or authority.

  • The artist's work was praised for its creative but anarchical tendencies against traditional forms.

• "Anarchical society": A term used in political theory, sometimes to describe a hypothetical society organized without a sovereign state, not necessarily implying chaos.

  • The book explores the possibility of a functional, yet anarchical, international system.

Variants and Related Words

• Anarchic (adj): The more common variant, identical in meaning to "anarchical."

  • The meeting was anarchic, with everyone shouting at once.

• Anarchically (adv): In an anarchical manner.

  • The group was organized anarchically, with no single leader.

• Anarchism (n): The political ideology that advocates stateless, self-governed societies based on voluntary institutions.

• Anarchist (n/adj): A person who believes in or promotes anarchism; relating to anarchists.

Synonyms

• Lawless: Not governed by or obedient to laws; characterized by a lack of legal control.
• Chaotic: In a state of complete confusion and disorder.
• Disorderly: Lacking organization; untidy or unruly.
• Ungoverned: Not ruled or controlled.

Antonyms

• Orderly: Neatly and methodically arranged.
• Governed: Controlled or ruled by a government or authority.
• Stable: Not likely to change or fail; firmly established.
• Law-abiding: Obedient to the laws of society.

Adjective

1. without law or control
   • the system is economically inefficient and politically anarchic