Autocratically: meaning, definitions and examples

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "autocratically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 autocraticamente

🇮🇳 स्वेच्छाचारी तरीके से

🇩🇪 autokratisch

🇮🇩 secara otokratis

🇺🇦 автократично

🇵🇱 autokratycznie

🇯🇵 専制的に

🇫🇷 autocratiquement

🇪🇸 autocráticamente

🇹🇷 otokratik olarak

🇰🇷 독재적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل استبدادي

🇨🇿 autokraticky

🇸🇰 autokraticky

🇨🇳 专制地

🇸🇮 avtokratsko

🇮🇸 einræðislega

🇰🇿 автократтық түрде

🇬🇪 ავტოკრატულად

🇦🇿 avtokratik olaraq

🇲🇽 autocráticamente

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.