subdue

/səb'dju:/

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Explanation of "Subdue"

Part of Speech: Verb

Usage Instructions

• When to use: Use "subdue" when talking about controlling something that is wild, strong, or difficult to manage. It can apply to both physical actions and emotional states.
• How to use: "Subdue" is often followed by an object, such as "subdue a rebellion" or "subdue one's anger."

Examples

1. Basic Example: The police were called to subdue the large crowd at the concert.
2. Emotional Example: She tried to subdue her excitement before the big announcement.
3. Literary Example: The hero had to subdue the dragon in order to save the village.

Advanced Usage

• In a more figurative sense, "subdue" can be used to describe overcoming personal challenges, such as fears or bad habits. For instance, "He worked hard to subdue his fear of public speaking."

Word Variants

• Subdued (adjective): This describes something that is quiet or controlled. For example, "Her voice was subdued during the serious discussion."
• Subduing (gerund): This is the action of bringing something under control. For example, "Subduing one's impulses can lead to better decision-making."

Different Meanings

1. Physical Control: To overpower or defeat someone or something physically, like a rebellion or a wild animal.
2. Emotional Control: To manage one’s emotions or desires, such as anger or appetite.

Synonyms

• Control
• Overcome
• Suppress
• Defeat
• Quell
• Tame

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• While there are no direct idioms for "subdue," you might encounter phrases like "hold back," which can convey a similar meaning when discussing controlling emotions.
• Phrasal Verb: "Subdue to" – To yield to someone or something. For example, "He had to subdue to the demands of his boss."

Summary

"Subdue" is a versatile verb that involves controlling or overcoming something that is difficult to manage.

Academic

Verb

1. correct by punishment or discipline
2. make subordinate, dependent, or subservient
   • Our wishes have to be subordinated to that of our ruler
3. get on top of; deal with successfully
   • He overcame his shyness
4. hold within limits and control
   • subdue one's appetites
   • mortify the flesh
5. to put down by force or authority
   • suppress a nascent uprising
   • stamp down on littering
   • conquer one's desires
6. put down by force or intimidation
   • The government quashes any attempt of an uprising
   • China keeps down her dissidents very efficiently
   • The rich landowners subjugated the peasants working the land

Synonyms

• tame
• chasten
• subordinate
• overcome
• get over
• surmount
• master
• mortify
• crucify
• suppress
• stamp down
• inhibit
• conquer
• curb
• repress
• quash
• keep down
• subjugate
• reduce