Synonyms for
Tyranny
Definition
Tyranny means cruel and oppressive government or rule.
Synonyms & similar words
caesarism
monocracy
onemanrule
absolutism
dictatorship
authoritarianism
shogunate
totalitarianism
stalinism
despotism
oppression
dictatorship
despotism
autocracy
totalitarianism
authoritarianism
harshness
severity
cruelty
tyrant
oppressor
bullying
intimidation
coercion
domination
subjugation
suppression
repression
control
Synonyms by register
Informal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- absolute tyranny
- brutal tyranny
- end tyranny
- overthrow tyranny
- reign of tyranny
- tyranny of the majority
- political tyranny
Word family
Usage note
Tyranny refers to cruel and oppressive government or rule. It carries a strong negative connotation, implying abuse of power and lack of freedom.
Compare "tyranny" with another word →
Example sentences
- The citizens revolted against the tyranny of the king.
- The people suffered under the tyranny of the dictator.
- The overthrow of tyranny led to a period of peace and prosperity.
- The tyrant's tyranny was finally put to an end.
- The country was under the tyranny of the military government.
Quotes
The tyranny of a prince in an oligarchy is not so dangerous to the public welfare as the apathy of a citizen in a democracy. - Charles Montesquieu
The tyranny of the many would be when one body takes over the rights of others, and then exercises its power to change the laws in its favor. - Voltaire
Tyranny is always better organized than freedom. - Charles Peguy