Synonyms for

Suppress

Verb / sʌˈpres / Another word for suppress — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to prevent or restrain something from being expressed or revealed

Synonyms & similar words

bottleup subdue oppress crush stampdown curb repress conquer inhibit restrain stifle quash subdue silence muffle conceal smother curb contain check control gag quiet mute

Synonyms by register

Formal

inhibit quell restrain subdue

Informal

hold back keep down shut down

Literary

stifle choke muzzle

Antonyms

encourage promote allow release permit instigate provoke

Common collocations

  • suppress the truth
  • suppress dissent
  • suppress evidence
  • suppress a rebellion
  • suppress a laugh
  • suppress emotions
  • suppress a fire

Word family

noun suppression
verb suppress
adjective suppressive

Usage note

Often used in contexts of control, censorship, or preventing something from being known or expressed. Be mindful of the strong connotation of forceful action.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher tried to suppress the giggles in the classroom.
  2. The dictator tried to suppress any opposition.
  3. He had to suppress his anger when he heard the news.
  4. The medication helps to suppress the cough.
  5. The company tried to suppress information about the faulty product.

Quotes

  • The desire to suppress uncomfortable information may be common, but a free society cherishes information more than it fears it. - Anthony Lewis
  • Suppress the public display of egoistic, self-enhancing, and self-promoting behaviors. - Sunday Adelaja
  • The more we suppress conflicts, the more we escalate them. - Criss Jami

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