oppressive Definition
- 1unjustly inflicting hardship and constraint, especially on a minority or other subordinate group
- 2weighing heavily on the mind or spirits; causing depression or discomfort
Using oppressive: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "oppressive" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The oppressive regime was overthrown after years of protests.
Example
The heat was oppressive and made it difficult to breathe.
Example
She felt oppressed by the weight of her responsibilities.
oppressive Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for oppressive
Antonyms for oppressive
Phrases with oppressive
extremely hot weather that is uncomfortable and can be dangerous
Example
The oppressive heat made it difficult to go outside.
a government that uses its power to control and suppress its citizens
Example
The people rebelled against the oppressive government.
an environment that feels suffocating and uncomfortable
Example
The oppressive atmosphere in the room made it hard to concentrate.
Origins of oppressive
from Latin 'oppress-' meaning 'pressed against'
Summary: oppressive in Brief
The adjective 'oppressive' [uh-pres-iv] describes situations where people are unjustly constrained or subordinated, or when something weighs heavily on the mind or spirits. Examples include oppressive regimes, oppressive heat, and oppressive responsibilities. Synonyms include tyrannical and dictatorial, while antonyms include liberating and uplifting.
