Authoritarian

Authoritarian describes a personality, government, or system of rule that demands strict obedience to authority, often at the expense of personal freedom and individual judgment. Authoritarianism is characterized by a strong central power, limited political freedoms, and the suppression of dissent. It prioritizes order and control above individual rights, employing strict rules, enforcement, and often, the use of force to maintain dominance. The term often carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of democracy and a disregard for civil liberties. An authoritarian approach can be seen in various contexts, from parenting styles to political regimes.

Authoritarian meaning with examples

• The dictator ruled with an authoritarian hand, suppressing any form of opposition and controlling every aspect of public life, leaving citizens with no voice or autonomy to make personal choices.
• The teacher's authoritarian classroom management style, characterized by rigid rules and a zero-tolerance policy for disobedience, created a tense environment, stifling creativity and critical thinking among the students.
• His authoritarian parenting approach, marked by strict commands and a complete disregard for his children's opinions, fostered resentment and a lack of independent decision-making skills in his children.
• The company's authoritarian leadership structure, where employees were expected to follow orders without question and innovation was discouraged, led to low morale and a high rate of employee turnover.