Brainwashing - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Brainwashing is the process of making someone adopt certain beliefs or ideas through forceful or manipulative methods, often by isolating them and repeating messages until they accept them without question.
Definition:
Forcibly changing someone's beliefs or attitudes through psychological manipulation.
Synonyms:
indoctrination, mind control, coercive persuasion
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
free will, independent thinking
Common Collocations:
brainwashing techniques, brainwashing campaign, brainwashing victims
Derivatives:
brainwash (verb), brainwashed (adjective)
Usage Tips:
Use "brainwashing" to describe systematic psychological manipulation, often in political or cult contexts.
Common Phrases:
"brainwashing tactics, " "victim of brainwashing, " "resist brainwashing"
Etymology:
Originated in the 1950s from Chinese Communist practices ("xǐ nǎo," meaning "wash brain").
Examples:
- 1. The cult used brainwashing to control its members' thoughts.
- 2. Brainwashing can make people believe false information against their will.
- 3. She escaped the group after years of intense brainwashing.
- 4. Some governments use propaganda as a form of brainwashing.