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Oppression Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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oppression

[əˈprɛʃ(ə)n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

social injustice

The exercise of authority or power in a burdensome, cruel, or unjust manner. Oppression can manifest in various forms such as discrimination, exploitation, or marginalization.

Synonyms

exploitation, persecution, subjugation, suppression, tyranny.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
oppression

This word is often used to describe a situation where a group of people or individuals are treated unfairly or harshly, usually by those in power.

  • The civil rights movement aimed to end the oppression of African Americans
  • Throughout history, many groups have fought against oppression
tyranny

This term describes a cruel and oppressive form of government or rule, often led by a tyrant who abuses power.

  • The revolution aimed to overthrow the tyranny of the dictator
  • Many stories recount the harsh realities of living under tyranny
subjugation

This term is used to describe the act of bringing someone or something under domination or control, often involving force.

  • The subjugation of indigenous people during the colonial period had long-lasting effects
  • The subjugation of weaker nations was common in ancient history
persecution

This word is typically used to describe hostile and unfair treatment, often related to religious, racial, or political beliefs.

  • Many people fled the country to escape religious persecution
  • The persecution of dissidents has led to international condemnation
exploitation

This term is commonly used when someone unfairly benefits from the work, resources, or vulnerabilities of others, often in an economic or labor context.

  • The company was accused of worker exploitation by paying them extremely low wages
  • Child labor is a form of exploitation that many NGOs are trying to eliminate
suppression

This word is used when something, such as a movement, information, or feelings, is forcibly put down or kept from being expressed.

  • The government's suppression of the protests led to widespread criticism
  • The suppression of emotions can sometimes lead to health issues

Examples of usage

  • Women have been fighting against oppression for centuries.
  • Oppression based on race is a serious issue in many societies.
  • The oppressive regime suppressed any form of dissent.
  • The minority group suffered from oppression by the ruling class.
  • Oppression can lead to social unrest and resistance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'oppression' comes from the Latin 'opprimere', which means to press down or crush.
  • Throughout history, different societies have struggled against forms of oppression, such as slavery and apartheid, fighting for rights and equality.
  • The Enlightenment era brought attention to individual rights, inspiring movements against oppression in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Political Science

  • Oppressive regimes often use censorship and propaganda to maintain control and limit freedom of expression.
  • Political theorists have discussed the impacts of oppression on society, noting that it can lead to unrest and revolutions.
  • Human rights organizations work globally to address oppression and advocate for fair treatment of all individuals.

Literature

  • Many classic novels, such as '1984' by George Orwell, explore themes of oppression and the struggles against authoritarianism.
  • Poetry has often been a medium for expressing the emotions and sentiments surrounding oppression, giving voice to the marginalized.
  • Literary movements like Afrocentric literature highlight the impact of oppression on culture and identity.

Psychology

  • Experiencing oppression can lead to psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and a diminished sense of self-worth.
  • Studies show that communities who face systemic oppression often develop resilience and solidarity as a way to cope.
  • Recognizing and addressing the psychological impacts of oppression is crucial for healing and recovery in affected communities.

Social Movements

  • The civil rights movement in the United States sought to end racial oppression and promote equality for African Americans in the 1960s.
  • Global movements, like the feminist movement, have fought against gender-based oppression and inequality in various societies.
  • The term 'intersectionality' describes how different forms of oppression can overlap and affect individuals who belong to multiple marginalized groups.

Origin of 'oppression'

The word 'oppression' originated from the Latin word 'oppressio', which means 'a pressing down'. The concept of oppression has been prevalent throughout history, with various groups experiencing oppression based on factors such as race, gender, or social class. Oppression is often associated with the abuse of power and the denial of basic rights and freedoms. The fight against oppression has been a key theme in social justice movements around the world.

See also: oppressed, oppressive, oppressively, oppressor.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,706 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.