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Dictator Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dictator

[หˆdษชk.teษช.tษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

political leader

A dictator is a ruler who has complete power over a country, especially one who has obtained control by force.

Synonyms

autocrat, despot, tyrant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dictator

Used to describe a leader who has absolute power and often rules in a harsh or oppressive way. It is a general term and can be used in both historical and modern contexts.

  • He rose to power and became the country's dictator, suppressing all political opposition.
  • Historians often discuss the impact of various dictators on world history.
autocrat

Used to describe a ruler who has absolute power and makes decisions without consulting others, often used in a somewhat formal or political context.

  • The country was governed by an autocrat who made decisions without any input from the parliament.
  • As an autocrat, she controlled every aspect of the administration.
tyrant

This describes a cruel and oppressive ruler, often focused on personal gain and displaying arbitrary use of power. It carries a highly negative meaning.

  • The people rebelled against the tyrant who had imposed heavy taxes and reduced their freedoms.
  • History is filled with tales of tyrants who met their downfall due to their own cruelty.
despot

Often used to describe a ruler who exercises power in a cruel or oppressive way. It has a strong negative connotation and is used to highlight the harshness of the rule.

  • The despot ruled with an iron fist, allowing no freedom of speech.
  • Under the despot's regime, the people lived in constant fear.

Examples of usage

  • The dictator suppressed all opposition and ruled with an iron fist.
  • The dictator's regime was characterized by widespread human rights abuses.
  • The dictator's reign of terror came to an end after a popular uprising.
  • The international community condemned the dictator's actions as undemocratic.
  • The dictator's grip on power seemed unshakable.
Context #2 | Noun

person who dictates

A dictator is a person who gives orders or commands in an authoritarian manner.

Synonyms

authoritarian, bossy, controller.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dictator

Used to describe a ruler with total power over a country, typically one who has obtained control by force. This term carries a highly negative connotation.

  • The dictator ruled the country with an iron fist, suppressing any form of opposition.
  • People lived in fear under the dictatorship, with no freedom of speech or assembly.
authoritarian

Refers to a style of governance or a leader who enforces strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom. This term can also apply to any strict authority figure, not just political leaders.

  • The authoritarian regime was known for its censorship and human rights abuses.
  • Her authoritarian parenting style didn't allow the children much freedom.
controller

Used to describe someone who tries to manage or influence the behavior of others, often in a detailed or excessive manner. This term can apply in both personal and professional contexts and can have a negative implication.

  • She is such a controller, always needing to know what everyone is doing.
bossy

Describes someone who is always telling people what to do in a way that is domineering or overbearing. This term is often used in everyday, non-political contexts and can be perceived as negative.

  • He's a bit bossy at work, always ordering people around.

Examples of usage

  • The boss was known for being a dictator in the workplace.
  • The dictator of the project decided the direction it would take.
  • The teacher was accused of being a dictator by the students.
  • The coach's dictatorial style alienated many of the players.
  • The dictator's micromanagement stifled creativity.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word originated from Ancient Rome, where a 'dictator' was appointed during emergencies to rule with absolute power, but only for a limited time.
  • Julius Caesar famously became dictator for life in 44 BC, changing the perception of the term to one associated with tyranny.
  • In Rome, a dictator was a legal title, contrasting with modern implications where it often suggests oppression.

Politics

  • Dictatorships can arise in countries facing crises, where leaders promise stability but often curtail freedoms in the process.
  • Some dictators use propaganda to maintain control, reshaping public perception and silencing opposition.
  • Famous examples of dictators throughout history include Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin, and Kim Jong-un, each influencing global events significantly.

Literature

  • In literature, dictators often serve as cautionary figures, representing the dangers of unchecked power and corruption.
  • George Orwell's '1984' features a totalitarian regime echoing characteristics of dictatorial leadership, emphasizing surveillance and manipulation.
  • Many dystopian novels explore themes of dictatorship, highlighting individual struggles against oppressive governance.

Psychology

  • The psychology behind dictatorship often involves a strong charismatic leader who manipulates followers' emotions and fears.
  • Research suggests that individuals under dictatorial regimes may experience a phenomenon called 'learned helplessness', feeling powerless amidst oppression.
  • Dictators may exploit social divides and prejudices to consolidate control, tapping into existing fears to justify their rule.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'The Pianist' and 'V for Vendetta' showcase stories of people living under dictatorship, emphasizing personal resilience and rebellion.
  • Video games such as 'Papers, Please' simulate the experience of life under an oppressive regime, allowing players to navigate moral dilemmas.
  • Popular music often reflects resistance to dictatorial regimes, with songs that inspire hope and the quest for freedom.

Origin of 'dictator'

The word 'dictator' originated in ancient Rome, where it referred to a magistrate granted extraordinary powers to deal with a crisis. The concept evolved over time to represent a ruler with absolute power, often associated with oppression and tyranny. In modern usage, 'dictator' is used to describe autocratic leaders who exercise unchecked authority over their subjects.

See also: dictating, dictatorial, dictatorship.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,504, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.