WordLens

oppress

1 of 1verb
/əˈprɛs/
Forms:oppresses,oppressing,oppressed,oppressed
1

to unfairly control or harm someone through unjust use of power or authority

transitive
  • The authoritarian regime oppressed its citizens by restricting their freedoms and brutally suppressing dissent.
  • The dictator oppressed the population, denying them basic rights and freedoms.
  • Throughout history, marginalized groups have been oppressed by those in positions of power.
  • The tyrannical ruler oppressed his subjects, ruling with an iron fist and silencing any form of dissent.
  • The wealthy elite oppressed the workers, exploiting their labor and paying them unfairly low wages.
Synonyms:
crushsuppress
2

to cause someone to feel heavy emotional or mental strain, distress, or anxiety

transitive
  • The constant criticism from her peers oppressed her, leaving her feeling worthless.
  • His harsh words oppressed her spirit, making it hard for her to stay motivated.
  • The looming deadline oppressed his mind, making it hard to focus on anything else.
  • The constant worries about the future oppressed her, stealing her ability to enjoy the present.
  • The isolation she experienced during the pandemic oppressed her mental health.
Synonyms:
persecute