Dissident Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
dissident
[หdษชsษชdษnt ]
Definitions
political opposition
A person who opposes official policy, especially that of an authoritarian state.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dissident |
Used to describe someone who disagrees with and opposes an official policy or authority, often in a political context.
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| rebel |
Used to describe someone who resists authority, control, or tradition, typically in a more general or non-political context. It can also describe someone involved in an armed uprising against a government.
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| opponent |
Used in a broad range of contexts to describe someone who is against an idea, policy, or person, including in sports, debates, politics, and more.
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| protestor |
Refers to someone who takes part in a public demonstration to express strong disapproval of something, often involving social or political issues.
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Examples of usage
- The dissidents were arrested for speaking out against the government.
- The dissident group continued to protest despite the threats of violence.
disagreeing
In opposition to official policy, especially that of an authoritarian state.
Synonyms
contrary, nonconformist, opposing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dissident |
This word is often used to describe someone who actively opposes official policy, especially in a political context. It can have a serious and sometimes negative connotation.
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| contrary |
Contrary is typically used to describe someone or something that goes against or is opposite to something else. It can be applied to both people and ideas, often in less formal contexts.
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| opposing |
Opposing is generally used to describe someone or something that actively resists or competes against another. It can be used in various contexts, such as sports, debates, or conflicts.
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| nonconformist |
A nonconformist is someone who does not follow established customs or norms, often in a cultural or social context. This word can have a positive or neutral connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The dissident opinions were met with harsh criticism from the ruling party.
- His dissident views often led to heated debates with his colleagues.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term derives from the Latin 'dissidens,' which means 'to sit apart,' highlighting the distance of ideas from mainstream thought.
- Dissidents played key roles in major historical movements, such as the civil rights movement in the United States during the 1960s.
- In the Cold War era, many dissidents emerged from oppressive regimes in Eastern Europe, advocating for human rights and democracy.
Political Context
- Many dissidents have faced severe consequences for their beliefs, including imprisonment or exile, especially in authoritarian regimes.
- Prominent dissidents, like Nelson Mandela and Aung San Suu Kyi, became symbols of resistance and change in their countries.
- Dissidents often rely on international activism and media attention to amplify their cause and draw support.
Cultural Impact
- Art and literature frequently reflect dissenting views, with works like George Orwellโs '1984' exploring themes of rebellion against oppressive governments.
- Music genres such as punk often serve as platforms for dissident voices, providing commentary on societal issues through lyrics and performance.
- Film has also portrayed dissidents, showcasing their struggles and influencing public perceptions, such as in movies like 'The Lives of Others' which tells the story of surveillance in East Germany.
Psychological Perspective
- Research suggests that individuals who identify as dissidents may experience internal conflict due to the pressure of societal conformity.
- Dissidents often exhibit resilience, as they challenge the status quo, which can be linked to higher levels of creativity and critical thinking.
- The act of dissent can be therapeutic for individuals, providing a sense of agency in oppressive situations and fostering emotional well-being.
Modern-Day Relevance
- In the age of social media, dissidents can reach global audiences quickly, organizing movements and rallying support effectively.
- The Arab Spring served as a recent example where dissidents mobilized protests primarily through social media channels.
- Current discussions about freedom of speech often spotlight dissidents, raising awareness about their struggles and the importance of safeguarding democratic values.
Origin of 'dissident'
The word 'dissident' originated from the Latin word 'dissidere', which means 'to sit apart'. It first appeared in English in the 16th century, with the meaning of 'differing in opinion or feeling'. Over time, 'dissident' has come to specifically refer to individuals who oppose or dissent from an established system or authority, particularly in the political context.
See also: dissenter, dissenters, dissenting.