Subjugation: meaning, definitions and examples

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subjugation

[səbˌdʒuːˈɡeɪʃn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

act of

The action of bringing someone or something under domination or control, often by the use of force.

Synonyms

domination, enslavement, oppression.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subjugation	Subjugation refers to the act of bringing someone or something under domination or control, typically through force. It often implies a process or period of being conquered. The subjugation of the indigenous people was documented in the history books. The country experienced years of subjugation under the foreign ruler.
domination	Domination means exerting control or influence over someone or something. It can be used in various contexts, such as politics, sports, or business. The company's market domination led to higher prices for consumers. His physical strength allowed him to maintain domination in the wrestling match.
oppression	Oppression involves prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control. It is often used to describe social, political, or economic injustices. The book highlights the oppression faced by marginalized groups. They protested against the systemic oppression they experienced in their everyday lives.
enslavement	Enslavement refers to the act of making someone a slave, depriving them of freedom and subjecting them to forced labor. It is a highly negative term with a strong historical and ethical weight. The horrific period of enslavement left a lasting impact on the community. They fought against the enslavement of their people.

Examples of usage

Many countries fought for independence from colonial subjugation.
The subjugation of the native population by the invaders was brutal.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

feeling of

The feeling of being under the control or domination of someone or something.

Synonyms

dominance, subordination, suppression.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subjugation	Used when referring to the act of bringing someone or something under control, often with force and oppression. Typically involves loss of freedom and autonomy. The book tells the story of the subjugation of native peoples by colonial powers. Their subjugation was complete; they had no more rights or freedoms.
dominance	Used to describe a state of power and influence over others, often in a social, economic, or competitive context. It does not always imply force or oppression. His dominance in the field of technology is unmatched. The lion's dominance over the other animals in the jungle was clear.
suppression	Used to describe the act of forcibly putting an end to something, such as dissent, protest, or negative feelings. It carries a negative connotation of forceful constraint. The government's suppression of the protest was swift and brutal. She struggled with the suppression of her true feelings.
subordination	Used to describe the act of placing someone or something in a lower rank or position, often in a hierarchical structure. It can be used in both neutral and negative contexts. In the military, subordination to higher-ranking officers is crucial. The company has a clear hierarchy of subordination and authority.

Examples of usage

She couldn't bear the subjugation she felt in her relationship.
The subjugation of their rights led to a sense of helplessness among the citizens.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Originates from the Latin word 'subjugare', which means 'to bring under the yoke.'
The term 'jugate' in Latin refers to joining or yoking together, illustrating control and dominance.
First entered Middle English around the 14th century, used in various contexts including warfare and personal relationships.

History

Throughout history, subjugation has been a common theme in colonization, where powerful nations would take control over weaker regions.
The practice of subjugation was prominent during the Atlantic Slave Trade, where millions were forcibly taken and subjugated to labor.
Many revolutions and liberation movements globally have fought against subjugation, seeking freedom and rights for oppressed people.

Cultural Perspectives

In literature, subjugation often symbolizes the conflict between oppressors and the oppressed, highlighting themes of struggle and resistance.
Films and books often depict subjugation as a critical moral issue, inviting audiences to reflect on power dynamics in society.
Art from various cultures frequently addresses subjugation, using symbolism to express the pain and resistance associated with oppression.

Psychology

Subjugation can lead to a range of psychological impacts on the oppressed, including trauma, loss of identity, and reduced self-esteem.
There's a phenomenon called 'learned helplessness' in psychology, where individuals in a subjugated position feel unable to change their situation due to prior experiences.
The attempt to subjugate can reflect deeper psychological needs for control and power in individuals.

Modern Implications

In contemporary discussions, topics like systemic racism and gender inequality are framed around the concept of subjugation.
The term is often used in debates about digital privacy, where individuals feel subjugated by corporations controlling their data.
Activism today often fights against forms of subjugation, advocating for equality and rights in various social movements.

Translations

Translations of the word "subjugation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 subjugação

🇮🇳 अधीनता

🇩🇪 Unterwerfung

🇮🇩 penaklukan

🇺🇦 підкорення

🇵🇱 poddanie

🇯🇵 征服 (せいふく)

🇫🇷 soumission

🇪🇸 subyugación

🇹🇷 boyun eğdirme

🇰🇷 정복 (jeongbok)

🇸🇦 إخضاع (ikhda')

🇨🇿 podrobení

🇸🇰 podrobenie

🇨🇳 征服 (zhēngfú)

🇸🇮 podreditev

🇮🇸 undirgefni

🇰🇿 бағындыру

🇬🇪 დამორჩილება (damorchileba)

🇦🇿 tabe etmək

🇲🇽 subyugación

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,998, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
17995 abeyance
17996 regenerate
17997 boulevard
17998 subjugation
17999 spool
18000 commoner
18001 stammered
...