a bout of repression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bout of repression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a temporary period or episode characterized by suppression or restraint of emotions, thoughts, or actions. Example: "After experiencing a bout of repression, she finally allowed herself to confront her feelings about the past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Too fierce a bout of repression could backfire.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In the past few weeks, in an extraordinary bout of repression, his police had reportedly killed around 80 protesters and injured hundreds, in a futile attempt to quell a widespread rebellion against his oligarchical rule.

Huffington Post

They provide a stiff but effective reminder that in China's political system—"a people's democratic dictatorship"—it is the dictatorship bit that counts.This bout of repression, however, may reflect more than the usual cycle.

The Economist

But it has to begin somewhere and, to happen at all, has to come before the next bout of repression.

The Economist

A bout of acne?

Independent

launched a bout of reorganization.

The New Yorker

Or a bout of wheezing.

The New York Times

A bout of food poisoning was next.

The New York Times

Just a bout of new year jitters?

The Guardian - Business

Next was a bout of bronchitis.

The New York Times

A bout of flu had laid him low in September.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bout of repression" when describing a specific, limited-time occurrence of suppressive actions or policies. It suggests a temporary phase rather than a permanent state.

Common error

Avoid using "a bout of repression" to describe long-term, systemic oppression. The phrase implies a temporary or episodic nature, which may not accurately reflect a sustained oppressive environment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bout of repression" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific instance or episode characterized by suppressive actions. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bout of repression" is a noun phrase used to describe a temporary period of suppressive actions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical structure and usability. While not very common, it appears primarily in news and media sources, with a neutral to formal register. Related phrases include "a period of suppression" or "a wave of crackdown", offering alternative ways to express similar concepts. When using the phrase, be mindful of its temporary implication and avoid applying it to describe long-term systemic oppression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A period of suppression

Replaces "bout" with "period", focusing on the duration of the repression.

An episode of oppression

Substitutes "repression" with "oppression", emphasizing the unjust nature of the suppression.

A wave of crackdown

Uses "crackdown" instead of "repression", highlighting the forceful nature of the suppressive actions.

A surge of authoritarianism

Replaces the phrase with a focus on the increase in authoritarian practices.

A moment of tyranny

Emphasizes the oppressive and cruel nature of the repression.

An outbreak of control

Shifts the focus to the sudden emergence of strict control.

A spasm of subjugation

Highlights the forceful and violent aspect of the repression.

A reign of terror

Emphasizes the fear and violence associated with the repression.

A cycle of abuse

Frames the repression as a recurring pattern of mistreatment and control.

A time of censorship

Focuses specifically on the suppression of speech and expression.

FAQs

How can I use "a bout of repression" in a sentence?

You can use "a bout of repression" to describe a short period of suppressive actions, as in, "The country experienced "a bout of repression" following the protests."

What are some alternatives to "a bout of repression"?

Alternatives include "a period of suppression", "an episode of oppression", or "a wave of crackdown", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "an bout of repression" instead of "a bout of repression"?

No, the correct usage is "a bout of repression". The indefinite article "a" is used before words that begin with a consonant sound.

How does "a bout of repression" differ from "systematic repression"?

"A bout of repression" suggests a temporary or isolated instance, while "systematic repression" implies a widespread, institutionalized pattern of suppression.