Suppress Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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suppress
[səˈprɛs ]
Definitions
emotion control
To suppress means to forcibly put an end to something, such as feelings, actions, or information. It involves restraining or holding back a particular reaction or behavior.
Synonyms
control, quash, restrain, silence.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
suppress |
Use when referring to forcefully putting an end to something such as a movement, feeling, or information.
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restrain |
Use when talking about holding back or limiting someone or something physically or emotionally.
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control |
Use when talking about having the power to influence or direct something or someone, often in a positive or neutral sense.
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quash |
Use when referring to rejecting or voiding something, typically a legal decision or rumour, often with authority. It can have a formal or bureaucratic connotation.
|
silence |
Use when referring to making someone or something stop making noise or stop expressing opinions, often with a connotation of censorship or suppression.
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Examples of usage
- The government tried to suppress information about the incident.
- She had to suppress her anger in front of her boss.
- I tried to suppress a smile when I heard the joke.
oppression
Suppress can also refer to the act of subduing or crushing individuals or groups through harsh treatment or violence.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
suppress |
Use this word when you want to talk about stopping something from growing, continuing, or coming out.
|
subdue |
Use this when you are indicating that someone is overcoming something, usually with some effort, or bringing something under control.
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crush |
This word is often used when you want to talk about destroying something completely, whether it's a physical object or someone's spirit.
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quell |
This word fits when you want to describe the act of putting an end to something, especially in a forceful way, like unrest or rebellion.
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Examples of usage
- The regime sought to suppress any form of dissent.
- The authorities used force to suppress the rebellion.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Suppressing emotions can lead to increased stress and anxiety, as the unexpressed feelings don't simply disappear.
- Defense mechanisms like suppression are often used to avoid confronting unpleasant thoughts or feelings.
- Studies show that people who suppress their emotions may have a harder time regulating their emotional responses over time.
Literature
- In many novels, characters who suppress their desires often face internal conflicts that drive the plot.
- Classic works such as Henrik Ibsen's 'A Doll's House' explore the theme of suppression in societal roles.
- Contemporary literature frequently addresses suppression as a response to cultural or familial expectations.
Law
- In legal terms, suppressing evidence refers to keeping information out of a trial that could affect the outcome.
- Laws around whistleblower protection often address issues of suppression in the workplace.
- The suppression of free speech and dissent is a critical topic in discussions about human rights.
Pop Culture
- Songs and movies frequently tackle themes of suppression, portraying characters struggling to express their true feelings.
- The 1999 film 'The Matrix' metaphorically addressed suppression through the concept of reality versus perception.
- Popular music often features lyrics that deal with the emotional fallout of suppressing love, anger, or other strong feelings.
Origin of 'suppress'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'suppressus', meaning 'to press down'.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, used in contexts of controlling or holding back.
- In the 16th century, it began to be used in political contexts, often referring to the control of uprisings.
The word 'suppress' originated from the Latin word 'suppressus', past participle of 'supprimere', which means 'to press down'. The term has been used in various contexts throughout history, from controlling emotions to oppressing individuals. Its usage has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings related to restraint and domination.
See also: suppressant, suppressed, suppressing, suppression, suppressor.
Word Frequency Rank
At #7,228 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.
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- 7225 assent
- 7226 swallowed
- 7227 sterile
- 7228 suppress
- 7229 preventive
- 7230 lofty
- 7231 contaminated
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