demagogue
/'deməgɔg/
Definition
- Noun:
- A political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular passions and prejudices: A demagogue is a person, especially a political leader, who gains popularity and power by exploiting emotions, prejudices, and ignorance, rather than by using rational argument or factual evidence.
Usage
- The term "demagogue" is used to describe a specific type of leader or orator. It carries a strong negative connotation, implying manipulation and dishonesty.
- It is typically used in political and historical contexts to critique leaders who use populist, often inflammatory, rhetoric.
Examples
- Noun:
- The historian warned that the nation was vulnerable to a demagogue who would promise easy solutions to complex problems.
- He was accused of being a demagogue for using fear and nationalism to rally his supporters.
Advanced Usage
- "To demagogue" (verb, less common): To behave like a demagogue; to treat (an issue) in the manner of a demagogue.
- Politicians sometimes choose to demagogue the immigration issue rather than discuss it rationally.
- "Demagogic" (adjective): Characteristic of or relating to a demagogue.
- His demagogic speeches were filled with empty promises and attacks on minorities.
Variants and Related Words
- Demagoguery (n): The actions, rhetoric, or techniques of a demagogue; demagogic practices.
- The election was marred by lies and demagoguery.
- Demagogism (n): A less common synonym for demagoguery.
Synonyms
- Rabble-rouser: A person who stirs up the passions or prejudices of the public.
- Firebrand: A person who is passionate about a particular cause, typically inciting change and often trouble.
- Populist (Note: This can be a more neutral term for a politician who claims to represent the common people, but it can overlap with "demagogue" when such appeals are manipulative).
Antonyms
- Statesman/Stateswoman: A skilled, experienced, and respected political leader.
- Moderate: A person who holds moderate views, especially in politics.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- "Pandering to the crowd": Acting to please the general public in a way that is often seen as insincere or manipulative, similar to demagoguery.
- Critics accused him of pandering to the crowd instead of offering substantive policy.
Noun
-
a political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular passions and prejudices
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
Từ chứa "demagogue"
Từ có nhắc đến "demagogue"