repression

word

Definition

Repression is the act of using force to control people or stop actions, or the process of keeping feelings or desires hidden.

Usage & Nuances

'Repression' is formal and used in both political (government force: 'political repression') and psychological (internal suppression: 'emotional repression') contexts. It differs from 'suppression', which is more deliberate. Often found in academic, news, and psychological texts.

Example Sentences

The government used repression to stop the protests.

basic

Psychologists study the effects of repression on mental health.

basic

Her repression of anger caused her to feel sad.

basic

Years of repression made it hard for him to express his true feelings.

natural

Some countries still rely on repression to control their citizens.

natural

He felt that growing up in a strict home led to a lot of emotional repression.

natural