V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary
authoritarian
noun, adjective
Definition: (n.) 1. a ruler with absolute sovereignty; 2. someone who acts in a tyrannical manner; 3. someone who believes in an authoritarian political system; (adj.) 1. requiring strict obedience to authority
Synonyms: (n.) dictator, tyrant, autocrat, totalitarian, disciplinarian; (adj.) tyrannical, dictatorial, repressive, imperious, autocratic
Antonyms: (n.) democrat, (adj.) democratic, submissive, permissive
Tips: Authoritarian is used to describe those with authority, most often political figures, governments, parents, or teachers. The word authoritarian usually carries a harsh connotationt--almost an abuse of authority.
Usage Examples:
Some of the students objected to their teacher's authoritarian classroom policies in which, if they wanted to pass the class, they had to obey all her strict rules. (repressive, imperious) adjective
When the country's authoritarian government fell from power, it was widely believed that democracy might have a chance to take hold. (totalitarian, dictatorial, tyrannical) adjective
The authoritarian manner in which our company president runs this office is not conducive to good morale. (tyrannical, repressive) adjective
He is a strict authoritarian and always wants things done his way. (autocrat, dictator) noun
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