Synonyms for

Dictatorship

Verb / dɪˈkteɪtɜ:ˌʃɪp / Another word for dictatorship — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Dictatorship is a form of government where a single person has complete control and power over a country.

Synonyms & similar words

onemanrule monocracy totalitarianism stalinism despotism caesarism authoritarianism shogunate tyranny absolutism autocracy tyranny despotism totalitarianism authoritarianism absolutism monocracy monarchy oligarchy fascism Nazism communism socialism totalism caesarism rulership

Synonyms by register

Formal

authoritarianism autocracy tyranny despotism

Informal

rule by one iron fist strongman rule

Literary

absolutism sovereignty

Antonyms

democracy republic autonomy freedom liberty self-governance

Common collocations

  • military dictatorship
  • brutal dictatorship
  • absolute dictatorship
  • end of dictatorship
  • overthrow a dictatorship
  • impose a dictatorship
  • a brutal dictatorship

Word family

noun dictatorship
verb dictate
adjective dictatorial
adverb dictatorially

Usage note

Dictatorship refers to a form of government where one person or a small group possesses absolute power. It carries a strong negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The country was under a dictatorship for many years.
  2. The dictator's dictatorship led to the country's downfall.
  3. People living under a dictatorship have very limited rights.
  4. Dictatorship is not a fair or just form of government.
  5. The dictator maintained his dictatorship through fear and intimidation.

Quotes

  • Dictatorship naturally arises out of democracy, and the most aggravated form of tyranny and slavery out of the most extreme liberty.
  • Dictatorship is not a solution for any problem.
  • Dictatorship, by whatever name, is founded on the doctrine that the individual amounts to nothing; that the State is the only one that counts.

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