Word: Authoritarian State
Definition: An "authoritarian state" is a type of government where a single leader or a small group of people have most of the power. In this system, the leaders do not have to answer to the people, and they often limit personal freedoms and rights.
Usage Instructions:
As a Noun: You can use "authoritarian state" to describe a country or government system. For example, you might say, "North Korea is considered an authoritarian state."
Context: You would typically use this term when discussing political systems, governments, or human rights issues.
Example Sentence:
"The authoritarian state imposed strict rules on its citizens, limiting their freedom of speech and assembly."
Advanced Usage:
When discussing political science or international relations, you might say, "Many authoritarian states maintain control through propaganda and surveillance."
Word Variants:
Authoritarian (Adjective): Describing something that is characteristic of an authoritarian state. For example, "The authoritarian regime restricted access to the internet."
Authoritarianism (Noun): The belief in or practice of political control by a single authority. For example, "Authoritarianism can lead to the suppression of dissent."
Different Meaning:
While "authoritarian state" specifically refers to a type of government, "authoritarian" can also describe behavior or attitudes in other contexts, such as a strict teacher or manager who does not allow input from others.
Synonyms:
Totalitarian state
Dictatorship
Despotic regime
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
"Toe the line": This means to follow rules or standards strictly, often used in the context of obeying government orders in an authoritarian state. Example: "Citizens are expected to toe the line in an authoritarian state."
"Fall in line": This means to conform to the rules or expectations set by an authority.