# authoritarianism

/əˌθɔɹəˈtɛɹiəˌnɪzəm/ (US) · /ˌɔːθɔːɹɪtˈeəɹiənˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/authoritarianism
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.