Oppress: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing the prolonged and unjust exercise of authority or power.

• The regime continued to oppress the minority population for years.
• Many activists fight against laws that oppress marginalized communities.

Used to talk about hostility and ill-treatment, especially because of race, political, or religious beliefs. Generally has a negative connotation.

• They were persecuted for their beliefs during the war.
• Many fled the country to escape religious persecution.

Used to describe cruel and oppressive rule, typically involving significant abuse of power. It carries a strong negative connotation.

• The dictator was known to tyrannize his subjects.
• The small town was tyrannized by a corrupt local official.

Used to indicate control or influence over someone or something, not necessarily negative and may refer to something being superior.

• The company continues to dominate the tech market.
• In the game, their team dominated the entire second half.

Used when talking about forcibly putting an end to something or preventing the development of something.

• The government tried to suppress the protests.
• They suppressed their laughter during the serious meeting.

Used to describe a situation where someone is subjected to harsh and unfair treatment, often in a political or systemic sense.

• The government used fear to oppress the minority group.
• She felt oppressed by the constant surveillance.

Used when someone is carrying a heavy load of responsibility or difficulty, both physically and emotionally.

• He felt burdened by the responsibility of looking after his sick parents.
• The financial debt was a heavy burden on their family.

Describes a situation that causes problems or worry, generally used for less severe issues.

• The old car is always giving me trouble.
• Don't trouble yourself over the small details.

Implies something is physically or emotionally heavy, making it hard to move or feel free, often leading to feeling overwhelmed.

• The heavy backpack weighed him down during the hike.
• She felt weighed down by her endless list of tasks.

This term often describes something causing continual trouble or distress, or an outbreak of disease. It can have a somewhat dramatic or negative connotation.

• The country was plagued by years of war and famine.
• She was plagued by constant anxiety.