Oppressive: meaning, definitions and examples

😞

Add to dictionary

oppressive

[ əˈprɛsɪv ]

^{Context #1}

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.

^{Context #2}

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.