Tyrannical Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
tyrannical
[tษชหranษชkl ]
Definition
in politics
Exercising power in a cruel or arbitrary way.
Synonyms
authoritarian, autocratic, dictatorial, domineering, oppressive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tyrannical |
Used to describe a ruler or government that exercises power in a cruel or arbitrary way. Often has a very negative connotation, suggesting extreme harshness.
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| oppressive |
Describes a system or situation that is harsh and burdensome, causing suffering or hardship. Can refer to governments, laws, climates, or personal behavior.
|
| dictatorial |
Refers to a manner of ruling that is oppressive and centralized under a single authority, similar to a dictatorship. Often used to criticize someone's overbearing style.
|
| autocratic |
Used to describe a leader or system where one person has absolute power. While this term can be neutral, it often carries a negative connotation.
|
| authoritarian |
Describes a governing style that values strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom. Can be used formally to describe political systems or leaders.
|
| domineering |
Describes someone who asserts their will over others in an overbearing way. Often used in interpersonal relationships rather than formal political contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- The tyrannical ruler oppressed his people and restricted their freedoms.
- The tyrannical government implemented strict laws to control the population.
- The tyrannical regime silenced any form of dissent with violent suppression.
- The tyrannical leader used fear and intimidation to maintain control over the country.
- The tyrannical dictator ruled with an iron fist, crushing any opposition.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Greek 'tyrannos', which referred to a ruler who seized power without legal right.
- In ancient times, a tyrant could be a temporary leader appointed in a crisis, but over time, it changed to someone who rules unfairly.
- The concept of tyranny was notably discussed in the works of philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, who viewed it as one of the worst forms of government.
Literature
- Tyrannical themes often appear in Shakespeare's plays, showcasing rulers who abuse their power, like King Lear.
- George Orwell's '1984' presents a tyrannical regime that controls freedom of thought and expression, illustrating the dangers of absolute power.
- In classical literature, tyrants often face downfall, showing that cruel rulers may ultimately be punished.
Psychology
- Studies in social psychology indicate that individuals in power often exhibit tyrannical behavior, especially in environments lacking checks and balances.
- The 'Stanford prison experiment' highlighted how ordinary people could become tyrannical when placed in positions of authority.
- Research shows that a tyrannical style of leadership can lead to high levels of stress and low morale among subordinates.
Political Science
- Tyranny is often associated with dictatorship, where a leader rules with absolute power without consent from the governed.
- The word is frequently used in discussions about totalitarian regimes, which suppress dissent and control many aspects of life.
- Political treatises on governance often warn against tyranny as a corruption of political power, emphasizing the need for systems to prevent such rule.
Origin of 'tyrannical'
The word 'tyrannical' originated from the Greek word 'tyrannikos' which means 'of or characteristic of a tyrant'. It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe someone who exercises power in a cruel or oppressive manner. The concept of tyranny has been present throughout history, with tyrannical rulers often being overthrown by their oppressed subjects seeking freedom and justice.