Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Dictatorial: meaning, definitions and examples

👑
Add to dictionary

dictatorial

 

[ˌdɪkˈtəˈtɔːrɪəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

politics

Of or relating to a ruler with total power over a country, typically one who has obtained control by force.

Synonyms

authoritarian, autocratic, oppressive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
dictatorial

Used to describe someone who behaves like a dictator, often in a negative sense, suggesting a disregard for others' opinions or welfare. It implies absolute authority and often a lack of democracy.

  • The manager's dictatorial style caused many employees to leave the company
  • His dictatorial approach stifled creativity and innovation
authoritarian

Refers to a system or individual that prioritizes obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom. It is often used in political contexts to describe governments or leaders who enforce strict control.

  • The country has been under authoritarian rule for decades
  • An authoritarian parent might not allow any deviation from their rules
autocratic

Describes a leadership style where one person holds absolute power and makes decisions without wider consultation. While similar to dictatorial, it can sometimes be used in a less negative context, simply to describe centralized control.

  • The company's CEO has an autocratic leadership style, making all major decisions alone
  • An autocratic ruler might impose laws without consulting advisors
oppressive

Usually carries a strong negative connotation, indicating harsh and unjust treatment. It can refer to actions or policies that weigh heavily on people's lives, making them feel burdened and confined.

  • The oppressive regime banned all forms of dissent
  • Working in such an oppressive atmosphere was almost unbearable

Examples of usage

  • The country was under dictatorial rule for over two decades.
  • The dictator's dictatorial regime oppressed the citizens.
  • The citizens lived in fear of the dictatorial government.
Context #2 | Adjective

behavior

Tending to tell people what to do in an autocratic way.

Synonyms

domineering, imperious, tyrannical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
dictatorial

Use this term when describing someone who exhibits authoritarian traits, often making unilateral decisions without considering others' opinions.

  • Her dictatorial management style left her team feeling undervalued
domineering

Best suited for describing someone who exerts control over others in a forceful and often overbearing manner.

  • His domineering attitude made it difficult for anyone else to have a say in the meeting
tyrannical

Appropriate for describing a person who uses power and authority in a cruel and oppressive manner. This term has a very negative connotation.

  • The tyrannical ruler imposed harsh restrictions on the freedoms of his citizens
imperious

Use this word to describe someone who is arrogantly commanding and expects unquestioning obedience.

  • The CEO's imperious tone left no room for discussion or dissent

Examples of usage

  • He had a dictatorial attitude towards his employees.
  • Her dictatorial behavior alienated her colleagues.
  • The teacher's dictatorial style of teaching did not resonate with the students.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word comes from the Latin 'dictator', which was used to describe a leader with absolute power during emergencies in ancient Rome.
  • In history, figures like Julius Caesar and Napoleon have been characterized as dictatorial due to their concentrated power over their nations.
  • Dictatorial regimes often arise during times of crisis, as leaders might impose strict rules to maintain control.

Political Science

  • Dictatorial governance typically restricts democratic processes, often leading to suppression of dissent and lack of political freedom.
  • Countries with dictatorial rulers may use propaganda to maintain control, portraying the leader as a savior who must be obeyed.
  • The concentration of power in dictatorial systems can create instability, often leading to coups or revolutions from those seeking change.

Psychology

  • People in dictatorial environments may experience fear, anxiety, and a lack of autonomy, impacting mental well-being.
  • The desire for order in chaos can lead individuals to accept dictatorial authority, prioritizing security over personal freedoms.
  • Individuals may exhibit learned helplessness under strict dictatorial rule, feeling powerless to change their circumstances.

Literature

  • Many novels, like George Orwell's '1984', critique dictatorial power and its effects on society and individual freedoms.
  • Literary works often present characters who resist dictatorial authority, highlighting the struggle for personal agency and ethics.
  • Dystopian narratives frequently explore the consequences of unchecked dictatorial regimes on human rights and societal structure.

Cultural References

  • Popular films and TV shows often portray dictatorial leaders as villains, symbolizing oppression and the fight for freedom.
  • Historical documentaries emphasize real-life dictators, exploring their impact on global history and culture.
  • The concept of dictatorial leadership can be found in music and art, representing rebellion against repression and calls for freedom.

Translations

Translations of the word "dictatorial" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ditatorial

🇮🇳 तानाशाही

🇩🇪 diktatorisch

🇮🇩 diktatoris

🇺🇦 диктаторський

🇵🇱 dyktatorski

🇯🇵 独裁的 (dokusai-teki)

🇫🇷 dictatorial

🇪🇸 dictatorial

🇹🇷 diktatörce

🇰🇷 독재적인 (dokjaejeog-in)

🇸🇦 استبدادي (istibdādī)

🇨🇿 diktátorský

🇸🇰 diktátorský

🇨🇳 专制的 (zhuānzhì de)

🇸🇮 diktatorski

🇮🇸 einræðislegur

🇰🇿 диктаторлық

🇬🇪 დიქტატორული (diktatoruli)

🇦🇿 diktatorluq

🇲🇽 dictatorial

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,455, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.