Pronunciation

/əˈpres/

Definitions

• Verb: (v) To keep someone down by unjust use of one’s authority or power; to subject to prolonged cruel or unjust treatment, especially mental suffering; to weigh heavily upon; to crush or burden. Example: “The dictator oppressed his people with harsh laws.”
• Noun: (n) The act or state of oppressing; the feeling of being heavily burdened, mentally or physically. Example: “Their struggle against oppression became a symbol of freedom.”

Phrases

• “Oppress the masses”: To dominate and mistreat a large group of people.
• “Lift the yoke of oppression”: To free someone from a burdensome or controlling situation.
• “Systemic oppression”: When oppressive policies, customs, or beliefs are ingrained within a society or institution.

Example Sentences

• Verb: “Throughout history, many groups have been oppressed due to their race, religion, or social status.”
• Noun: “The fight against oppression has been a central theme in her political activism.”

Synonyms

• Suppress
• Dominate
• Subjugate
• Tyrannize
• Persecute
• Burden
• Crush
• Intimidate
• Harass
• Stifle

Antonyms:

• Liberate
• Empower
• Uplift
• Support
• Encourage
• Free