Word
authoritarianism
Phoneticsau·thor·i·tar·i·an·ism
US/əˌθɔɹəˈtɛɹiəˌnɪzəm/
UK/ˌɔːθɔːɹɪtˈeəɹiənˌɪzəm/
Politics
Definition
n. a style of leadership where one person or a small group has all the power and makes all the rules. People in this system usually do not have a choice in how they are governed.
n. a political system or leadership style characterized by absolute power and control, typically by a single leader or a small group. It involves the suppression of opposition and the lack of individual freedoms.
Examples
“The country moved toward authoritarianism after the new leader took power.”
“Critics of the regime argue that its strict laws are a sign of growing authoritarianism and a lack of democratic accountability.”
“While the constitution guarantees certain civil liberties, the ruling party's increasing control over the judiciary has led many observers to label the state as an authoritarianism.”
Examples
simple
“The country moved toward authoritarianism after the new leader took power.”
contextual
“Critics of the regime argue that its strict laws are a sign of growing authoritarianism and a lack of democratic accountability.”
complex
“While the constitution guarantees certain civil liberties, the ruling party's increasing control over the judiciary has led many observers to label the state as an authoritarianism.”
Real-World Examples
“Saifi, 32, opposes the Comoran government, which critics accuse of authoritarianism, and says he "fears returning" to his home country where he would be "under a death threat".” “This is a dangerous moment: these are fertile grounds for authoritarianism and fascistic movements, and it’s no surprise that people feel anxious and confused.” Etymology
From authoritarian + -ism.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Related words
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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