Dominance: meaning, definitions and examples

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dominance

[ˈdɒmɪnəns ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in social interactions

The power or influence over others, often achieved through assertiveness, confidence, and control. Dominance can be displayed through body language, vocal tone, and decision-making.

Synonyms

authority, control, supremacy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dominance	Describes a position of power or influence over others, usually in a specific area such as sports, business, or social settings. Can have a negative connotation when used to describe overpowering behavior. The company's dominance in the tech industry remains unchallenged The alpha male demonstrated his dominance in the wolf pack
control	Implies the power to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events. Commonly used in management, politics, or personal contexts. Can suggest micromanagement or authoritarianism if overdone. The manager has control over the project's timeline He struggled to maintain control over his emotions
authority	Refers to the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. Often used in formal or organizational contexts. Can be viewed positively or negatively depending on the situation. She has the authority to approve the budget The teacher's authority in the classroom must be respected
supremacy	Indicates superior power or authority over all others. Often used in historical, racial, or cultural contexts. Can carry a negative connotation, especially when referring to racial or ethnic superiority. The concept of white supremacy is harmful and incorrect The empire asserted its supremacy over the region

Examples of usage

He asserted his dominance in the meeting by speaking confidently and making decisive choices.
The dominance of the alpha male was evident in the way the other pack members deferred to him.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in genetics

The ability of an allele to express its phenotype over a recessive allele. Dominance is a key concept in understanding genetic inheritance patterns.

Synonyms

ascendancy, domination, prevalence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dominance	Used to describe a situation where one person, group, or entity has significant control or power over others. Can be applied in both personal and professional settings, often with neutral or slightly positive connotation. The company's dominance in the market is unmatched The lion's dominance in the animal kingdom is unquestionable
prevalence	Refers to the widespread presence or commonness of something within a particular area or group. Generally used in neutral or scientific contexts. The prevalence of online education has increased during the pandemic The prevalence of smartphone usage is undeniable in today's society
ascendancy	Used when referring to a gradual rise in power or influence, often implying a positive connotation or achievement over time. Her ascendancy in the political arena was remarkable The ascendancy of digital media over traditional print is evident
domination	Implies an overpowering control, often with a negative or oppressive connotation. Typically used in contexts where power is exerted aggressively or unfairly. The dictator's domination left the people without freedom His domination over the team stifled creativity and growth

Examples of usage

The dominant gene for brown eyes will always be expressed over the recessive gene for blue eyes.
In Mendelian genetics, dominant traits mask recessive traits in offspring.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in animal behavior

The hierarchical status or position within a group of animals, often determined through competition and aggression. Dominance can impact access to resources and mating opportunities.

Synonyms

domineering, leadership, ruling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dominance	Use this word to describe a situation where someone has a lot of power or control over others. It is often used in a neutral or descriptive manner. 'The company's dominance in the market is undeniable ' 'The lion's dominance in the jungle is well-known '
leadership	Use this word when discussing the act of leading a group of people or an organization. It is often viewed positively. 'Her leadership skills are exceptional ' 'Good leadership is essential for the success of the project '
domineering	Use this word when describing someone who tries to control others in a bossy or overbearing way. It has a negative connotation. 'She left him because he was too domineering ' 'His domineering attitude made him unpopular among his colleagues '
ruling	Use this word to talk about making decisions and having control, especially in a political or judicial context. It can also refer to a formal decision made by an authority. 'The court's ruling was in favor of the defendant ' 'The king's ruling was just and respected by all '

Examples of usage

The alpha wolf demonstrates dominance by leading the pack and asserting control over resources.
Male peacocks display dominance through their vibrant plumage and elaborate courtship displays.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Latin word 'dominantia,' meaning 'to rule' or 'to master.'
'Dominance' entered the English language in the late 14th century, reflecting power dynamics.
It is often used in both social and biological contexts to describe control or influence.

Psychology

Studies show that dominant behavior can affect group dynamics and decision-making processes.
In social species, dominance can determine mating opportunities, food access, and group leadership.
Non-verbal cues, such as posture and eye contact, often signify dominance in human interactions.

Biology

In genetics, 'dominance' refers to the relationship between alleles, where one allele can mask the effects of another.
In animal behavior, dominant individuals often have priority over resources and mates in their social groups.
Dominance hierarchies are common in many species, establishing order and reducing conflicts.

Cultural Context

The concept of dominance is explored in literature and media, often symbolizing power struggles between characters.
In politics, dominance is frequently associated with authority, control, and the use of power to influence others.
Cultural interpretations of dominance can vary, with some societies valuing collective decision-making over individual power.

Sociology

Dominance theory in sociology examines how power relationships shape social structures and institutions.
Social dominance orientation is a personality trait reflecting an individual's preference for hierarchies in social groups.
Researchers study how status and dominance influence interpersonal relationships and societal roles.

Translations

Translations of the word "dominance" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dominância

🇮🇳 प्रभुत्व

🇩🇪 Dominanz

🇮🇩 dominasi

🇺🇦 домінування

🇵🇱 dominacja

🇯🇵 支配

🇫🇷 domination

🇪🇸 dominación

🇹🇷 hakimiyet

🇰🇷 지배

🇸🇦 هيمنة

🇨🇿 dominance

🇸🇰 dominancia

🇨🇳 优势

🇸🇮 dominanca

🇮🇸 yfirráð

🇰🇿 үстемдік

🇬🇪 დომინირება

🇦🇿 üstünlük

🇲🇽 dominación

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,198 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
7195 gram
7196 comprehension
7197 wandering
7198 dominance
7199 oval
7200 disastrous
7201 specialty
...