Authoritarianism: meaning, definitions and examples

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authoritarianism

 

[ əˌθɔːrɪˈteriənɪzəm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

government system

Authoritarianism is a form of government characterized by strong central power and limited political freedoms. It relies on the absolute authority of a single leader or a small group of individuals. In an authoritarian regime, there is little to no tolerance for dissent or opposition.

Synonyms

autocracy, despotism, dictatorship

Examples of usage

  • Many authoritarian regimes suppress freedom of speech and assembly.
  • Citizens living under authoritarianism often face restrictions on their civil liberties.
Context #2 | Noun

leadership style

Authoritarianism can also refer to a leadership style that is domineering and controlling, where decisions are made unilaterally by the leader without input from others. This style often leads to a hierarchical structure with strict rules and regulations.

Synonyms

dictatorial, oppressive, tyrannical

Examples of usage

  • The CEO's authoritarian management style alienated many employees.
  • His authoritarian approach stifled creativity within the team.

Translations

Translations of the word "authoritarianism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 autoritarismo

🇮🇳 सत्तावाद

🇩🇪 Autoritarismus

🇮🇩 otoritarianisme

🇺🇦 авторитаризм

🇵🇱 autorytaryzm

🇯🇵 権威主義 (けんいしゅぎ)

🇫🇷 autoritarisme

🇪🇸 autoritarismo

🇹🇷 otoriterlik

🇰🇷 권위주의 (권위주의)

🇸🇦 استبدادية (استبداد)

🇨🇿 autoritarismus

🇸🇰 autoritarizmus

🇨🇳 专制主义 (zhuānzhì zhǔyì)

🇸🇮 avtoritarizem

🇮🇸 alræðishyggja

🇰🇿 авторитаризм

🇬🇪 ავტორიტარიზმი

🇦🇿 avtoritarizm

🇲🇽 autoritarismo

Etymology

The term 'authoritarianism' originated in the mid-19th century, deriving from the word 'authority' with the suffix '-ism' added to denote a system or ideology. Authoritarian regimes have existed throughout history, with notable examples including dictatorships in various countries. The concept of authoritarianism has been a subject of study in political science and sociology, exploring its impact on society and governance.

See also: antiauthoritarian.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,787, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.