Word
oppressed
Phoneticsop·pressed, stress on the second syllable
US/əˈpɹɛst/
UK/əpɹˈɛst/
Definitions
01treated unfairly
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. treated in a cruel and unfair way, especially by a government or a person with power.
adj. subjected to harsh and authoritarian treatment; burdened by the exercise of unjust power or authority.
“The oppressed citizens finally began to protest against the unfair laws.”
“The novel explores the psychological toll on an oppressed population living under a regime that forbids free speech and assembly.”
Usage
Often used as a collective noun 'the oppressed' to refer to a group of people.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02past action of treating cruelly
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. the past tense of 'oppress', meaning to have treated a group of people cruelly.
v. past tense and past participle of the transitive verb 'oppress', indicating the historical or completed act of subjugation.
“The king oppressed his people for many years before the revolution.”
“Throughout the nineteenth century, the colonial administration oppressed the local tribes by seizing their ancestral lands and restricting their movement.”
Usage
As a verb, it requires a direct object representing the person or group being mistreated.
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“They were the first band I heard where I recognised myself in the lyrics, because I felt oppressed by religion.” - 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
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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