repressive
adj. C1 Advanced US //ɹiˈpɹɛsɪv// UK //ɹɪpɹˈɛsɪv// re·pres·sive
adj. controlling people in a harsh or unfair way. It describes governments or rules that stop people from being free or expressing their opinions.
adj. restricting the freedom of a person or group, typically through the use of force or strict legislation. Often describes political regimes or social systems that inhibit individual expression.
The citizens suffered under a repressive government.
The new laws were seen as repressive because they banned peaceful protests and restricted the press.
Historians argue that the regime's repressive measures ultimately backfired, as the systematic suppression of dissent only served to unify the various opposition factions.
Usage
Typically used attributively before a noun like 'regime', 'policy', or 'measure'.