Oppressive: meaning, definitions and examples
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oppressive
[ əˈprɛsɪv ]
in a social context
Unjustly inflicting hardship and constraint, especially on a minority or other subordinate group.
Synonyms
authoritarian, domineering, repressive, tyrannical
Examples of usage
- The oppressive regime cracked down on dissenting voices in the country.
- The oppressive laws discriminated against marginalized communities.
in a personal context
Weighing heavily on the mind or spirits; causing depression or discomfort.
Synonyms
burdensome, crushing, overbearing, overwhelming
Examples of usage
- The oppressive feeling of loneliness engulfed her.
- The oppressive silence in the room made him anxious.
Translations
Translations of the word "oppressive" in other languages:
🇵🇹 opressor
🇮🇳 दमनकारी (damankari)
🇩🇪 unterdrückerisch
🇮🇩 menindas
🇺🇦 гнітючий
🇵🇱 uciskający
🇯🇵 抑圧的 (yokuatsu-teki)
🇫🇷 oppressif
🇪🇸 opresivo
🇹🇷 baskıcı
🇰🇷 억압적인 (eog-apjeog-in)
🇸🇦 قمعي (qam'i)
🇨🇿 utlačující
🇸🇰 utláčajúci
🇨🇳 压迫的 (yāpò de)
🇸🇮 zatiralski
🇮🇸 þrálátandi
🇰🇿 қысымшылық
🇬🇪 ჩაგვრის (chagvris)
🇦🇿 zülmedici
🇲🇽 opresivo
Word origin
The word 'oppressive' originated from the Latin word 'oppressivus', which means 'to press down'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century. The concept of oppression has been prevalent throughout history, with various societies experiencing forms of oppressive systems. The term has been commonly used to describe unjust and harsh treatment imposed on individuals or groups, highlighting the importance of addressing and combating oppression in all its forms.
See also: oppressed, oppression, oppressively, oppressor.