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Oligarchy: meaning, definitions and examples

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oligarchy

 

[ ˈɒlɪˌɡɑːrki ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

political system

A form of power structure in which power rests with a small number of people, often from the same social, economic, or political class. Oligarchies can exist in democracies or autocracies, and are characterized by the concentration of power in the hands of a few.

Synonyms

elite, ruling class, establishment

Examples of usage

  • The country was ruled by a wealthy oligarchy that controlled most of the resources.
  • The oligarchy maintained its control through influence and manipulation of key decision-makers.
Context #2 | Noun

business context

A small group of individuals who control a large portion of a particular industry or market, often leading to limited competition and a lack of diversity in the market.

Synonyms

monopoly, cartel, conglomerate

Examples of usage

  • The tech industry was dominated by a powerful oligarchy of companies that stifled innovation and competition.
  • The oligarchy of oil companies maintained a stronghold on the market, preventing new players from entering.

Translations

Translations of the word "oligarchy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 oligarquia

🇮🇳 अल्पतंत्र

🇩🇪 Oligarchie

🇮🇩 oligarki

🇺🇦 олігархія

🇵🇱 oligarchia

🇯🇵 寡頭政治 (かとうせいじ)

🇫🇷 oligarchie

🇪🇸 oligarquía

🇹🇷 oligarşi

🇰🇷 과두 정치 (gwadu jeongchi)

🇸🇦 الأوليغارشية

🇨🇿 oligarchie

🇸🇰 oligarchia

🇨🇳 寡头政治 (guǎtóu zhèngzhì)

🇸🇮 oligarhija

🇮🇸 fámenningsríki

🇰🇿 олигархия

🇬🇪 ოლიგარქია

🇦🇿 oliqarxiya

🇲🇽 oligarquía

Etymology

The term 'oligarchy' originated from the Greek words 'oligos', meaning 'few', and 'arkhein', meaning 'to rule'. It has been used throughout history to describe various forms of governance where power is concentrated in the hands of a small group. Oligarchies have been prevalent in ancient Greek city-states, medieval Europe, and modern societies. The concept has often been associated with wealth and influence, leading to debates about the impact of oligarchic control on democracy and equality.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,518, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.