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Tyrannize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tyrannize

[ˈtɪr.ə.naɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in politics

To rule or govern in a tyrannical or oppressive manner, exercising absolute power and control over others.

Synonyms

dictate, dominate, oppress.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tyrannize

Used to describe a situation where someone is ruling or controlling others in a cruel and unfair way. It often carries a strong negative connotation.

  • The dictator tyrannized the population, stripping them of their rights and freedoms
  • In his workplace, he would tyrannize his subordinates, making their lives miserable
oppress

Describes a situation where someone is treating others in a harsh and unfair manner, limiting their freedom or rights. It always has a negative connotation.

  • The regime continued to oppress the minority groups, denying them basic human rights
  • For years, the community felt oppressed by the unjust laws
dominate

Refers to a situation where one entity exercises strong influence or control over others. It can be used in both neutral and negative contexts, depending on the severity of control.

  • In the boardroom, he would always dominate the discussions, leaving little room for others to contribute
  • Their team dominated the competition, winning every match by a large margin
dictate

Applicable when someone is giving orders with authority, often without considering others' opinions. It doesn't always have a negative connotation but can imply a lack of collaboration.

  • The manager would often dictate the tasks for the team, expecting them to follow without question
  • Her tendency to dictate every detail made her difficult to work with

Examples of usage

  • He was accused of tyrannizing the people and violating their rights.
  • The dictator continued to tyrannize the country, ignoring the pleas for democracy.
Context #2 | Verb

in a personal relationship

To assert control or dominance over someone in an oppressive or unjust manner, often through fear or intimidation.

Synonyms

bully, domineer, intimidate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tyrannize

Used when someone exercises absolute power in a cruel or oppressive way, often over a group of people or a society.

  • The dictator tyrannized the citizens for decades.
  • He attempted to tyrannize the entire office with his strict rules.
bully

Commonly used when someone seeks to harm or intimidate those who are perceived as vulnerable, often in a school, workplace, or social setting. It has a negative connotation.

  • The kids at school bullied him because he was different.
  • She was bullied at work for not fitting in with the group.
intimidate

Applied when someone aims to make another person afraid, in order to force them to do something or to assert control. This word is generally negative.

  • The gang members attempted to intimidate the witnesses.
  • He uses aggressive body language to intimidate his opponents.
domineer

Used in situations where someone imposes their will over others in an arrogant or overbearing manner. This term often describes behavior in families or small groups.

  • He tends to domineer over his younger siblings.
  • She couldn't stand her manager's tendency to domineer over the team.

Examples of usage

  • She felt like her partner was starting to tyrannize her, constantly criticizing and belittling her.
  • The boss's constant micromanaging was beginning to tyrannize the employees.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'tyrannos', which described an absolute ruler.
  • Originally, a 'tyrant' was not always viewed negatively; it indicated someone who took power without legal right but could also be a protector of the people.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's works, tyrannical characters often face tragic falls, illustrating the belief that cruelty leads to downfall.
  • Authors throughout history have used tyrannical figures to explore themes of power, corruption, and resistance.

Psychology

  • People who tyrannize others often exhibit traits of dominance and low empathy, showing a desire to control.
  • Psychological studies suggest that tyrannical behavior can stem from insecurity and an attempt to assert power over others.

Politics

  • Throughout history, many political regimes have been labeled as tyrannies, where leaders exercise power oppressively.
  • Movements advocating for democracy often arise in response to tyrannical governments, demonstrating the human quest for freedom.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and books, tyrannical characters like Darth Vader symbolize the struggle against oppressive authority.
  • The trope of the tyrant is common in video games, where players often fight against evil overlords to restore order.

Origin of 'tyrannize'

The word 'tyrannize' comes from the Greek word 'tyrannos', meaning an absolute ruler or despot. It has been used throughout history to describe the oppressive and dictatorial actions of those in power, both in political and personal contexts.

See also: tyrannical, tyranny.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,138, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.