authoritarian

/ɔ:,θɔri'teəriən/

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Word: Authoritarian

Part of Speech: Adjective (can also be used as a noun)

Definition: The word "authoritarian" describes a way of ruling or behaving where people are expected to obey rules or orders without question. It often refers to a government or leader that has complete control and does not allow people to have personal freedoms. It can also describe a person who is very strict and does not allow others to disagree or have their own ideas.

Usage Instructions:

• When using "authoritarian" as an adjective, it describes a system of government or a person's behavior.
• As a noun, it refers to someone who behaves in a strict or controlling way.

Example Sentences:

• Adjective: "The authoritarian government did not allow any protests or free speech."
• Noun: "My boss is an authoritarian; he expects everyone to follow his orders without question."

Advanced Usage:

• "Authoritarian" can be used in discussions about political systems, leadership styles, and social behavior. It often appears in contexts related to human rights and freedoms.

Word Variants:

• Authoritarianism (noun): The belief in or practice of giving power to an authority that restricts personal freedoms.
  • Example: "The rise of authoritarianism in some countries is concerning to global leaders."
• Authoritarianism (noun): A system of government that is centralized and dictatorial, requiring complete obedience to the authority.
• Authoritarianly (adverb): In a manner that is authoritarian.
  • Example: "She ruled authoritarianly, making it clear that dissent would not be tolerated."

Different Meanings:

• In a broader sense, "authoritarian" can describe any situation where one party has more power than others, not just in government. For example, an authoritarian teacher might not allow students to express their opinions.

Synonyms:

• Dictatorial
• Oppressive
• Autocratic
• Despotic
• Totalitarian

Antonyms:

• Democratic
• Liberal
• Permissive

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "authoritarian," but you may hear phrases like "to toe the line," which means to conform to rules or standards, often used in contexts involving strict authority.

Summary:

"Authoritarian" is used to describe strict control and obedience, often in politics or leadership. It can refer to a government that limits freedoms or a person who is overly controlling in their behavior.

Academic

Adjective

1. expecting unquestioning obedience
   • the timid child of authoritarian parents
   • insufferably overbearing behavior toward the waiter
2. characteristic of an absolute ruler or absolute rule; having absolute sovereignty
   • an authoritarian regime
   • autocratic government
   • despotic rulers
   • a dictatorial rule that lasted for the duration of the war
   • a tyrannical government

Noun

1. a person who behaves in a tyrannical manner
   • my boss is a dictator who makes everyone work overtime

Synonyms

• dictatorial
• overbearing
• autocratic
• despotic
• tyrannic
• tyrannical
• dictator