Synonyms for

Repression

Verb / ri:ˈpreʃʌn / Another word for repression — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Repression is the act of controlling or suppressing something or someone.

Synonyms & similar words

suppression oppression subjugation domination control censorship silencing stifling inhibition constraint restraint curbing quashing crushing squashing smothering strangling squelching throttling muzzling

Synonyms by register

Formal

suppression subjugation oppression quelling

Informal

holding back keeping down stifling

Literary

thralldom enchainment

Antonyms

liberation freedom release emancipation indulgence expression uninhibitedness

Common collocations

  • political repression
  • state repression
  • sexual repression
  • psychological repression
  • economic repression
  • repression of dissent
  • repression of feelings

Word family

noun repression
verb repress
adjective repressive
adverb repressively

Usage note

Repression often refers to the act of controlling or suppressing something, especially by force. It can also refer to the psychological defense mechanism of pushing unwanted thoughts or memories out of conscious awareness.

Example sentences

  1. The dictator's repression of political opposition led to widespread protests.
  2. The teacher's repression of the student's creativity stifled their learning potential.
  3. The company's repression of employee complaints led to a toxic work environment.
  4. The government's repression of information about the pandemic caused confusion and fear among the public.
  5. The athlete's repression of their emotions helped them stay focused during the competition.

Quotes

  • Repression works only to strengthen and knit the repressed.
  • Repression is the father of neurosis, of self-hatred.
  • The point of repression is to keep you from feeling.

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