Domination: meaning, definitions and examples

👑
Add to dictionary

domination

 

[ ˌdɒmɪˈneɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in politics

The exercise of power or control over a nation or group of people. It involves the ability to influence or direct the behavior of others through authority, force, or persuasion.

Synonyms

authority, control, rule, supremacy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
domination

Often used in contexts where one entity exerts overwhelming power or control over another, often with negative connotations. It implies a forceful or oppressive sense of control.

  • The tyrant's domination of the country led to widespread fear and oppression.
  • Their team's domination in the sport has discouraged many competitors.
control

Used to describe the ability or power to manage, direct, or influence something or someone. This term is quite versatile and can range from neutral to negative depending on the context.

  • He has control over the financial department.
  • The remote allows you to control the television.
supremacy

Used to describe the state of being superior to all others in authority, power, or status. This word often has historical or cultural connotations and can sometimes imply a contentious or hierarchical dominance.

  • The concept of racial supremacy has been widely discredited and condemned.
  • His supremacy in the chess world remains unchallenged.
authority

Typically used to describe the legitimate or socially accepted power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. It often carries a more neutral or positive connotation compared to 'domination'.

  • The principal holds the authority to enforce school rules.
  • She is a respected authority in her field of research.
rule

Often used to describe the governing or regulation by an individual or body. It can imply a formal or authoritative governance without the oppressive overtones of 'domination'.

  • The king's rule was marked by peace and prosperity.
  • New rules were implemented to improve company efficiency.

Examples of usage

  • The country's domination by a single political party has led to concerns about democracy.
  • The company's domination of the market has stifled competition and innovation.
Context #2 | Noun

in sports

Complete control or superiority in a competitive situation, such as a game or match. It often refers to a team or player's overwhelming performance compared to their opponents.

Synonyms

overpowering, victory, winning streak.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
domination

Refers to a state where one entity has complete control over another, often used in contexts where there is a significant imbalance of power. Can have a negative connotation if it implies oppression.

  • The team's domination in the championship was undeniable.
  • His domination over the market made it hard for competitors to survive.
victory

Refers to the act of winning a contest or battle, usually after a struggle or competition. Positive connotation.

  • Their victory in the final match was celebrated by all their fans.
  • The general declared victory after a long and grueling conflict.
winning streak

Describes a period during which someone or a team consistently wins multiple games or contests in succession. Positive connotation.

  • The team is on a winning streak, having won the last five matches.
  • Her winning streak in the tournament has impressed everyone.
overpowering

Used to describe a situation where one force overwhelms another with superior strength, often quickly and decisively. Can also refer to intense emotions or sensations.

  • The army's overpowering offensive left no room for resistance.
  • The scent of the flowers was overpowering in the small room.

Examples of usage

  • The team's domination on the field was evident from the very beginning of the game.
  • Her domination of the tennis tournament solidified her status as the top player.
Context #3 | Noun

in relationships

The exercise of power or authority over another person in a relationship, often to the detriment of the other person's autonomy or well-being. It can manifest in various forms, including emotional, physical, or financial control.

Synonyms

control, domineering behavior, oppression.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
domination

Typically used to describe a scenario where one person, group, or entity has a significant power or influence over others. It can be used in both neutral and negative contexts depending on the situation.

  • The team's domination in the league was undisputed
  • The country's domination by a foreign power had a lasting impact on its culture
control

Usually refers to the ability to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events. It can have both positive or neutral connotations. It's often used in contexts related to management, leadership, or regulation.

  • She had control over the project's timeline
  • The thermostat allows you to control the temperature in the room
oppression

Used to describe prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control. It has strong negative connotations and is often used in the context of social, political, or economic scenarios.

  • The people rose up against the oppression they had faced for decades
  • The regime's oppression of the minority groups sparked international outrage
domineering behavior

Describes a situation where someone is trying to assert their will over others in an overbearing or authoritative manner. This term has negative connotations and is often used in personal or professional relationships.

  • His domineering behavior made it difficult for others to work with him
  • She found her partner's domineering behavior unsettling

Examples of usage

  • His domination over her was evident in the way he made all the decisions without considering her input.
  • She finally broke free from the cycle of domination and abuse in her relationship.

Translations

Translations of the word "domination" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dominação

🇮🇳 प्रभुत्व

🇩🇪 Dominanz

🇮🇩 dominasi

🇺🇦 домінування

🇵🇱 dominacja

🇯🇵 支配 (しはい)

🇫🇷 domination

🇪🇸 dominación

🇹🇷 hakimiyet

🇰🇷 지배 (지배)

🇸🇦 سيطرة

🇨🇿 dominance

🇸🇰 dominancia

🇨🇳 统治 (tǒngzhì)

🇸🇮 prevlada

🇮🇸 ráðandi staða

🇰🇿 үстемдік

🇬🇪 დომინაცია

🇦🇿 hakimiyyət

🇲🇽 dominación

Etymology

The word 'domination' originates from the Latin word 'dominatio', which means 'rule' or 'power'. It has been used throughout history to describe the exercise of control or authority over others in various contexts, such as politics, sports, and relationships.

See also: dominantly, dominate, dominated, dominating, indomitable.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,144 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.