Oligarchical: meaning, definitions and examples
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oligarchical
[ ˌɒlɪˈɡɑːrkɪkəl ]
political system
Oligarchical refers to a form of power structure in which power resides in the hands of a small number of people. These individuals may come from different classes but typically share similar interests or characteristics, allowing them to influence governance or control resources without representative democracy.
Synonyms
elitist, exclusive, government by a few
Examples of usage
- The country transitioned from a democracy to an oligarchical regime.
- In an oligarchical society, a few wealthy individuals shape the laws.
- The oligarchical ruling class maintained their power through strategic alliances.
Translations
Translations of the word "oligarchical" in other languages:
🇵🇹 oligárquico
🇮🇳 अभिजात्यवादी
🇩🇪 oligarchisch
🇮🇩 oligarki
🇺🇦 олігархічний
🇵🇱 oligarchiczny
🇯🇵 寡頭制の
🇫🇷 oligarchique
🇪🇸 oligárquico
🇹🇷 oligarkik
🇰🇷 과두제의
🇸🇦 أوليغارشي
🇨🇿 oligarchický
🇸🇰 oligarchický
🇨🇳 寡头政治的
🇸🇮 oligarhičen
🇮🇸 olígharkískur
🇰🇿 олигархиялық
🇬🇪 ოლიგარქიული
🇦🇿 olqarxik
🇲🇽 oligárquico
Etymology
The word 'oligarchical' is derived from the Greek word 'oligarchia', which combines 'oligos' meaning 'few' and 'archia' meaning 'rule'. Its usage can be traced back to the ancient Greek city-states, where political power was often concentrated in the hands of a select group. Oligarchy has been a common form of governance throughout history, frequently appearing in various cultures and political systems. The concept has evolved, but the fundamental principle of a few individuals holding significant power remains consistent. Today, the term is often used in political discourse to describe societies where a small elite controls government and economy, functioning contrary to democratic ideals.