# dictatorial

/ˌdɪktəˈtɔɹiəɫ/ (US) · /dɪktɐtˈɔːɹɪəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dictatorial
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

describing a leader or a system where one person has total power and makes all the rules. It can also describe someone who is very bossy and wants everyone to follow their orders.

For teachers: characterised by or resembling a dictatorship; exercising absolute power without legal or constitutional restraint. Often used to describe a person's manner or a system's structure.

## Examples

- The leader's dictatorial style made it hard for others to speak up.
- The new manager's dictatorial approach to scheduling caused a lot of tension among the staff.
- The transition from a democratic government to a dictatorial regime was marked by the sudden suppression of independent media and the arrest of political opponents.

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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.