Definition

Noun: A person who publicly disagrees with and opposes the political policies, ideology, or authority of their government or ruling party. A political dissident is characterized by dissent from established political orthodoxy.

Usage

The term "political dissident" is used to describe an individual whose opposition is based on political principles and is often, though not always, expressed in a context where such dissent is suppressed or carries significant personal risk. It implies a conscious, principled stance against the prevailing political system.

Examples

• The writer was imprisoned for years as a political dissident.
• Several political dissidents were exiled for publishing critiques of the regime.
• Her activism labeled her a political dissident in the eyes of the state.

Advanced Usage

• The term often carries connotations of courage, moral conviction, and persecution. It is frequently used in discussions of human rights, authoritarian regimes, and political repression.
• While often associated with non-violent opposition, the term focuses on the dissent itself, not the methods used.

Variants and Related Words

• Dissident (noun/adjective): A more general term for a person who disagrees with an established political or religious system. "Political dissident" is a specific type of dissident.
• Dissidence (noun): The act or state of dissenting; political opposition.

Synonyms

• Dissenter
• Opponent
• Protester
• Critic
• Nonconformist (in a political context)

Antonyms

• Supporter
• Loyalist
• Conformist
• Apologist

Related Phrases and Contexts

• To be branded/labeled a political dissident: To be officially categorized as an opponent by the authorities.
  • After the protest, he was branded a political dissident.
• To go into exile as a political dissident: To be forced to or choose to leave one's country due to political persecution.
  • She lived in exile as a political dissident for a decade.

Noun

1. a dissenter from political orthodoxy