Authoritarian - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Authoritarian describes a governing system or leader that enforces strict obedience to authority, often limiting individual freedoms and suppressing opposition through centralized control.
Definition:
Favoring strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom.
Synonyms:
dictatorial, autocratic, domineering, oppressive
Part of Speech:
adjective, noun
Antonyms:
democratic, liberal
Common Collocations:
authoritarian regime, authoritarian rule, authoritarian government, authoritarian leader
Derivatives:
authoritarianism, authoritatively
Usage Tips:
Use "authoritarian" to describe leaders or systems enforcing strict control over people’s freedoms.
Common Phrases:
iron fist, heavy-handed rule, top-down control
Etymology:
Derived from "authority," originating from Latin "auctoritas," meaning influence or command.
Examples:
- 1. The teacher had an authoritarian approach in the classroom.
- 2. Many fear an authoritarian government taking away their rights.
- 3. His authoritarian parenting style left little room for discussion.
- 4. The company’s authoritarian policies frustrated employees.