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Tyranny Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tyranny

[ˈtɪrəni ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

government

Cruel and oppressive government or rule. A system in which a single ruler or group has absolute power over a country or people.

Synonyms

autocracy, despotism, oppression.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tyranny

Tyranny is often used to describe a cruel and unfair government or authority that exerts absolute power and control, causing suffering and limiting freedom.

  • The people revolted against the tyranny of the dictator.
  • Her reign was marked by tyranny and fear.
oppression

Oppression is used to describe prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control, often affecting a specific group of people. This term is broader and can be used outside of government contexts.

  • The fight against racial oppression continues worldwide.
  • Economic oppression kept the lower classes in a state of poverty.
despotism

Despotism suggests a form of governance where a single entity rules with absolute power in a harsh, oppressive manner. It usually carries a negative implication.

  • The citizens suffered under the despotism of the tyrant.
  • Despotism often leads to widespread human rights abuses.
autocracy

Autocracy refers to a system of government where one person holds absolute power. It doesn't inherently carry a negative connotation, but can be seen negatively depending on the leader's actions.

  • The nation transitioned from a democracy to an autocracy under the new ruler.
  • In an autocracy, all decisions are made by a single individual without input from others.

Examples of usage

  • The people rebelled against the tyranny of the dictator.
  • Living under the tyranny of a totalitarian regime is unbearable.
Context #2 | Noun

behavior

Cruel and unjust use of power or authority. Unreasonable or arbitrary use of power or control.

Synonyms

authoritarianism, dominance, tyrannical behavior.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tyranny

Tyranny is used when describing a government or ruler who exercises power in a harsh, cruel, and oppressive manner. It's often associated with lack of freedom and human rights violations.

  • The nation suffered under the tyranny of a cruel dictator.
  • Rebellion against tyranny has often been the motivation for revolutions throughout history.
dominance

Dominance is used in a broader sense to describe a situation where one person, group, or entity has more power, control, or influence over others. It isn't necessarily negative but can have negative connotations if used in certain contexts.

  • The company's dominance in the market makes it difficult for smaller competitors to thrive.
  • His dominance on the field was obvious as he led his team to victory.
tyrannical behavior

Tyrannical behavior refers to actions of an individual who exercises power or control in a cruel, oppressive, and unjust manner. It can be used in personal, social, or political contexts.

  • The manager's tyrannical behavior created a hostile work environment.
  • Her tyrannical behavior in the family made everyone fearful.
authoritarianism

Authoritarianism refers to a political system where individual freedoms are subordinated to the state, and there is little political pluralism. It doesn't necessarily imply cruelty but indicates strict control over many aspects of life.

  • Authoritarianism can stifle creativity and free speech in a society.
  • The government's shift towards authoritarianism has raised concerns among human rights groups.

Examples of usage

  • The boss's tyranny over his employees created a toxic work environment.
  • The teacher's tyranny in the classroom stifled creativity.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'tyrannos', which means 'absolute ruler' and was originally used without negative connotations.
  • In ancient Greece, a 'tyrant' was often someone who seized power unconstitutionally, but not always seen as cruel.
  • The Romans used the term to describe harsh rulers, leading to the modern negative interpretation.

Political Science

  • In political theory, tyranny is often categorized as a form of government that opposes democracy and represents the rule of one over many.
  • Philosophers like Plato and Aristotle wrote extensively about tyranny as one of the corrupt forms of government.
  • Tyranny can occur in the form of oppressive laws, censorship, and violation of human rights, reflecting the abuse of power.

Literature

  • Many works, such as George Orwell's '1984', depict the consequences of tyranny, illustrating the struggles against oppressive regimes.
  • Shakespeare frequently explored themes of tyranny, showing how absolute power corrupts characters like King Lear and Macbeth.
  • Tyranny is a common subject in dystopian novels, emphasizing the fight for freedom and justice against oppressive authorities.

Psychology

  • Psychological manipulation is a key tool for tyrants, often using fear and propaganda to maintain control over people.
  • Studies show that living under tyranny can lead to learned helplessness, where individuals feel powerless to enact change.
  • The effects of tyranny can also extend to mental health, causing anxiety and depression among oppressed individuals.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'V for Vendetta' and 'The Hunger Games' showcase the fight against tyranny, resonating with audiences' desires for freedom.
  • Songs like 'Killing in the Name' by Rage Against the Machine critique oppressive regimes and have become anthems for anti-tyranny protests.
  • The portrayal of tyrannical characters in video games often highlights the hero's journey to overthrow the oppressive system.

Origin of 'tyranny'

The word 'tyranny' comes from the Greek word 'tyrannos', which originally meant 'illegitimate ruler' or 'usurper'. In ancient Greece, a tyrant was a ruler who seized power without legal right. Over time, the term evolved to describe oppressive and unjust rule. Tyranny has been a recurring theme in history, with many societies struggling against tyrannical governments and leaders.

See also: tyrannical, tyrannize.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,182 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.