Oppress Meaning in English
word
əˈpɹɛs
uh-PRESS
əpɹˈɛs
uh-PRESS
Definition
To treat people in a cruel, unfair, or harsh way, often limiting their freedom or rights.
Usage & Nuances
Formal and strong word, often used when talking about governments or groups using power unfairly. Collocates with 'minority', 'people', 'rights'. Not to be confused with 'depress' (to make sad) or 'suppress' (to stop by force).
Spanish: oprimirPortuguese (BR): oprimirPortuguese (PT): oprimirChinese (Simplified): 压迫Chinese (Traditional): 壓迫Hindi: दमन करनाArabic: يَضطَهِدBengali: দমন করা - অত্যাচার করাRussian: угнетать - притеснятьJapanese: 抑圧するVietnamese: áp bức - đàn ápKorean: 억압하다Turkish: ezmek - baskı altında tutmakUrdu: ظلم کرنا - دبا دیناIndonesian: menindas - menekan
Example Sentences
They felt oppressed and powerless under the strict rules.
natural
People often rise up when they are oppressed for too long.
natural
For years, the government used laws to oppress minorities.
natural
Some leaders oppress their own people.
basic
It is wrong to oppress others because of their beliefs.
basic
History tells us that many groups have been oppressed.
basic