Repression: meaning, definitions and examples

Repression is often used in psychological or political contexts. In psychology, it refers to the unconscious exclusion of painful or traumatic memories from consciousness. In politics, it describes the act of subduing someone or something by force.

• The government's repression of dissent led to mass protests.
• He suffered from repression of childhood memories.

Suppression is often used in political and psychological contexts. It refers to the act of forcibly putting an end to something. In psychology, it means the conscious exclusion of unacceptable thoughts or desires.

• The suppression of free speech is a violation of human rights.
• He practiced suppression of his anger in stressful situations.

Inhibition is commonly used in psychological and social contexts. It refers to a feeling that makes one self-conscious and unable to act in a relaxed and natural way. It can also mean a restraining or blocking effect in a biological context.

• Her shyness was an inhibition that prevented her from speaking in public.
• The drug acts as an inhibition of nerve signals.

Subjugation is typically used in historical, political, or social contexts to describe the act of bringing someone or something under domination or control, often in an oppressive manner.

• The subjugation of indigenous peoples is a dark chapter in history.
• The company's workers fought against the subjugation by their employer.

Used when talking about holding back emotions, desires, or actions, typically by an individual or a group.

• He showed signs of emotional repression and found it hard to express his feelings
• The government's repression of free speech has led to widespread unrest

Describes the act of consciously putting an end to something or stopping it from happening, such as actions, activities, or publication.

• The officials moved quickly for the suppression of the protest
• The suppression of scientific research can have dangerous consequences

Refers to a situation where a group or individual is kept down by unjust use of power or authority. Typically describes systemic issues.

• The oppression of minority groups in the country has raised serious human rights concerns
• She felt the weight of societal oppression throughout her life

Refers to cruel, unreasonable, and arbitrary use of power or control, often in a political context.

• The nation's people revolted against the tyranny of the dictator
• The soldiers were fighting to free the land from tyranny