Dissent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
dissent
[dษชหsษnt ]
Definitions
political
Disagreement with or opposition to an opinion or policy. Dissent often leads to debate and discussion.
Synonyms
disagreement, disapproval, opposition.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dissent |
Use when referring to official or formal disagreement, particularly in legal or political situations. It often implies a difference of opinion with a prevailing idea or policy.
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| disagreement |
This is a general term for any situation where two or more parties have different opinions. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
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| opposition |
Use in contexts where there is active resistance or hostility toward something, often used in a political or competitive atmosphere.
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| disapproval |
This word is best when expressing a negative evaluation or judgment, often implying moral or personal objection. It can have a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Dissent among the members of the committee delayed the decision.
- His dissent on the proposed legislation sparked a heated argument.
legal
To hold or express opinions that are at variance with those commonly or officially held. To disagree or dispute.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dissent |
Used when expressing a formal or professional disagreement, especially in legal or official settings. It implies a thoughtful or principled opposition.
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| disagree |
Commonly used in everyday conversations when two or more people have different views or opinions. It is informal and less intense.
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| object |
Used to formally express opposition, often in legal or parliamentary settings. It can also be used in everyday situations but sounds more serious.
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| protest |
Used to show strong disapproval, often publicly and sometimes involving demonstrations. It carries a sense of urgency and activism.
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Examples of usage
- The judge dissented from the majority opinion in the case.
- She was not afraid to dissent from the prevailing viewpoint.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'dissent' comes from the Latin 'dissentire', which means 'to feel differently'.
- It first appeared in English texts around the 14th century, often related to religious disagreement.
- Dissent has played a critical role throughout history, particularly during the Reformation when certain groups broke away from the Catholic Church.
Politics
- In modern democracies, the right to dissent is protected as a civil liberty, ensuring people can voice their opposition to government actions.
- Notable figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi used dissent as a non-violent means to challenge unjust laws.
- Some countries have laws against dissent, which can lead to serious consequences for those who speak out.
Psychology
- Research shows that expressing dissent can promote better decision-making by introducing alternative viewpoints.
- Groupthink can suppress dissent, leading to poor outcomes, whereas a culture that values disagreement tends to perform better.
- Individuals may hesitate to dissent due to fear of social repercussions or ostracism, impacting their mental well-being.
Literature and Arts
- Dissent has been a powerful theme in literature, showcasing characters who challenge societal norms and expectations.
- Famous literary works, like George Orwell's '1984', depict the dangers of suppressing dissent in totalitarian regimes.
- In art, dissent can be expressed through provocative installations or performances that critique the status quo.
Culture
- Many cultural movements, such as punk rock and civil rights, were fueled by dissent against mainstream values.
- Dissent can be a form of cultural expression, allowing marginalized voices to be heard and valued.
- Different cultures have varying tolerance for dissent; some celebrate it as a sign of strength while others view it as a threat.
Origin of 'dissent'
The word 'dissent' originated from the Latin word 'dissensus', which means disagreement. The concept of dissent has played a crucial role in history, from political revolutions to social movements. Dissent is often seen as a fundamental aspect of democracy, allowing for diverse opinions and challenging the status quo.