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Autocratically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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autocratically

[ˌɔːtəˈkrætɪkli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

leadership style

In an autocratic manner, with absolute power and control over decision-making.

Synonyms

authoritatively, dictatorially.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
autocratically

This is used when someone governs in a manner where they hold all the power and make decisions without input from others. It often implies a lack of fairness or consideration for others.

  • The CEO ruled the company autocratically, never consulting the board of directors.
  • She led the team autocratically, making all the decisions unilaterally.
authoritatively

This is used when someone speaks or acts with a sense of authority, confidence, and control. It usually implies credible knowledge or expertise.

  • He spoke authoritatively on the subject, demonstrating his deep knowledge.
  • The teacher handled the classroom authoritatively, maintaining order and respect.
dictatorially

This word describes a situation where someone acts like a dictator, exercising absolute power in a harsh or oppressive manner. It carries a strong negative connotation.

  • The manager ran the office dictatorially, leaving no room for employee input.
  • She imposed her rules dictatorially, ignoring anyone who disagreed.

Examples of usage

  • She managed the team autocratically, making all the decisions herself.
  • The CEO ruled autocratically, not allowing any input from the employees.
Context #2 | Adverb

behavior

Behaving in a way that shows a desire to control others and make decisions without considering their input.

Synonyms

domineeringly, tyrannically.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
autocratically

This word is used to describe situations where one person makes decisions without consulting others, often in political or organizational settings. It implies a centralized, authoritarian control.

  • The CEO ran the company autocratically, ignoring suggestions from his team.
domineeringly

Domineeringly is used to describe behavior where a person aggressively tries to control others. It carries a negative connotation and is often used in personal or interpersonal contexts.

  • He spoke to his colleagues domineeringly, making it clear that he wouldn’t tolerate any dissent.
tyrannically

This word is used when referring to cruel and oppressive rule or behavior, typically in a political or social context. This carries a very strong negative connotation.

  • The dictator ruled his country tyrannically, crushing any form of rebellion.

Examples of usage

  • He acted autocratically, ignoring the opinions of his colleagues.
  • She spoke autocratically, expecting everyone to follow her orders without question.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Political Science

  • Many forms of government, like dictatorships, operate autocratically, where a single leader rules without input from others.
  • Autocratic governance often leads to quick decision-making but can result in significant human rights abuses.

Psychology

  • Research shows that individuals who lead autocratically may struggle with empathy, impacting team morale and collaboration.
  • People under autocratic leadership may experience stress and lack of motivation, leading to lower productivity.

Literature

  • Autocratic leaders are often portrayed as tyrants in literature, like in George Orwell's 'Animal Farm'.
  • Characters who lead autocratically frequently face rebellion or downfall, illustrating the dangers of absolute power.

History

  • Historical figures like Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler exemplified autocratic rule in the 20th century, leading to significant global consequences.
  • In ancient Rome, emperors often ruled autocratically, concentrating power in the hands of one and diminishing the role of the Senate.

Origin of 'autocratically'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek words 'auto' meaning 'self' and 'kratos' meaning 'power' or 'rule'.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, reflecting the rise of absolute power in governments.

The word 'autocratically' is derived from the noun 'autocrat', which originated in the mid 17th century. It combines the Greek roots 'auto-' (self) and '-crat' (ruler), referring to a ruler with absolute power. The adverb 'autocratically' emerged later, in the 19th century, to describe actions or decisions made in an autocratic manner.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,548, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.