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repression

[rɪˈprɛʃən]

repression Definition

  • 1the act of using force to control someone or something
  • 2the process of preventing a thought, feeling, or memory from becoming conscious
  • 3the 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

Idioms Using repression

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.