repression
- 01 C1 Advanced
the use of force or strict laws by a government to control people and stop them from being free.
the action of subduing someone or something by force; specifically, the inhibition of political or social freedom.
Simple“The citizens suffered under years of political repression and had no right to protest.”
In context“The regime maintained its grip on power through the systematic repression of all dissenting voices and the strict censorship of independent media.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
the act of pushing painful or scary memories and feelings out of your conscious mind.
the psychological process of excluding distressing memories, thoughts, or impulses from the conscious mind.
Simple“He dealt with his childhood trauma through repression, refusing to think about what happened.”
In context“Freudian theory suggests that emotional repression can lead to various psychological symptoms later in adult life if the underlying conflicts remain unresolved.”
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun in clinical contexts.
SynonymsAntonyms
“But individuals such as Shlosberg, human rights campaigner Oleg Orlov and the late dissident Alexei Navalny spoke out against “tyranny and repression” from the dock with no realistic chance of acquittal.”
“Minorities have been persecuted, while activists and journalists face repression.”