govern (B1)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈɡʌvərn/

Definition

To officially control or rule a country or region, or a group of people, by making laws and ensuring they are obeyed.

Examples

• The new prime minister promised to govern with integrity and transparency.

• It is difficult to govern a country with so many different ethnic groups.

• The dictator governed his people with an iron fist for decades.

How to Use govern

govern by (prepositional phrase)

To rule or control using a specific method or system. — "The nation was governed by a council of elders."

govern someone/something (collocation)

To have authority or control over a person or thing. — "The king governed his people justly."

Synonyms of govern

Words with a similar meaning to govern:

• rule
• manage
• administer
• preside

Antonyms of govern

Words with the opposite meaning to govern:

• obey
• rebel

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