repression

[rɪˈprɛʃən]

repression Definition

• 1. the act of using force to control someone or something
• 2. the process of preventing a thought, feeling, or memory from becoming conscious
• 3. the state of being kept down by unjust use of force or authority

Using repression: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "repression" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The government's repression of free speech was widely criticized.

• Example

  The repression of emotions can lead to psychological problems.

• Example

  The repression of the minority group led to protests and demonstrations.

repression Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for repression

• suppression
• oppression
• subjugation
• domination
• control

Antonyms for repression

• expression
• release
• emancipation

Idioms Using repression

• let off steam

  to release pent-up emotions or energy in a harmless or constructive way

  Example

  He went for a run to let off some steam after a long day of work and repression.

• keep a lid on something

  to keep something under control or hidden

  Example

  The company tried to keep a lid on the scandal, but it eventually became public knowledge.

• bottle up

  to suppress or restrain emotions or feelings

  Example

  She tends to bottle up her emotions instead of expressing them.

Phrases with repression

• memory repression

  a defense mechanism in which a person unconsciously prevents painful memories from entering awareness

  Example

  Her therapist helped her recover repressed memories of childhood abuse.

• political repression

  the use of force or authority to suppress political opposition or dissent

  Example

  The country's history is marked by periods of political repression and human rights violations.

• sexual repression

  the inhibition or suppression of sexual feelings or behaviors

  Example

  The novel explores themes of sexual repression and desire.

Origins of repression

from Latin 'reprimere', meaning 'to press back'

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Summary: repression in Brief

Repression [rɪˈprɛʃən] refers to the act of using force to control someone or something, or the process of preventing a thought, feeling, or memory from becoming conscious. It can also refer to the state of being kept down by unjust use of force or authority. Examples include the government's repression of free speech and the repression of emotions. Phrases like 'memory repression' and 'sexual repression' denote specific types of repression, while idioms like 'let off steam' and 'keep a lid on something' describe ways to cope with repression.