authoritarianism

noun

Pronunciation: əˌθɒrɪˈtɛəriənɪzəm

Definition

A system of government or management that demands strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom.

Examples

• The rise of authoritarianism in the region led to the suppression of independent media outlets.

• Historians often study the conditions that allow authoritarianism to take root in fragile democracies.

• Many citizens protested against the creeping authoritarianism they felt was eroding their civil rights.

Synonyms of authoritarianism

Words with a similar meaning to authoritarianism:

• tyranny
• autocracy
• dictatorship
• totalitarianism

Antonyms of authoritarianism

Words with the opposite meaning to authoritarianism:

• democracy
• liberalism

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