Illiberal: meaning, definitions and examples
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illiberal
[ ɪˈlɪb.ər.əl ]
political ideology
Illiberal refers to a political ideology or governance that does not uphold liberal principles such as individual freedoms, equal rights, and democratic participation. Such regimes are often characterized by authoritarian measures, limited political pluralism, and suppression of dissent.
Synonyms
anti-liberal, authoritarian, oppressive
Examples of usage
- The country has experienced illiberal governance for over a decade.
- Illiberal policies have restricted journalists from freely reporting.
- Many citizens oppose the illiberal turn of their government.
Translations
Translations of the word "illiberal" in other languages:
🇵🇹 iliberal
🇮🇳 अन्यायपूर्ण
🇩🇪 illiberal
🇮🇩 illiberal
🇺🇦 ілліберальний
🇵🇱 illiberal
🇯🇵 イルリベラル
🇫🇷 illibéral
🇪🇸 illiberal
🇹🇷 illiberal
🇰🇷 일리버럴
🇸🇦 غير ليبرالي
🇨🇿 illiberální
🇸🇰 illiberálny
🇨🇳 非自由主义的
🇸🇮 illiberal
🇮🇸 illiberal
🇰🇿 либерал емес
🇬🇪 ილიბერალური
🇦🇿 illiberal
🇲🇽 illiberal
Etymology
The term 'illiberal' is derived from the Latin word 'liberalis', meaning 'generous' or 'free', which is rooted in 'liber', meaning 'free'. It began to be used in the 19th century to describe political systems that were resistant to liberal reforms. Historically, illiberal regimes have emerged in contrast to liberal democracies, often arising during periods of social upheaval or political instability. The term captures the essence of governance that prioritizes state control over individual liberties, marking a significant divergence from the principles celebrated by liberal ideologies, such as the protection of civil rights, open markets, and pluralism. Contemporary discussions around illiberalism often relate to current events in various countries where democratic processes are being undermined, prompting debates about the future of liberty and democracy.