authoritarian rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "authoritarian rule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a governing system where power is concentrated in the hands of a single authority or a small group, often characterized by limited political freedoms. Example: "The country has been under authoritarian rule for several decades, stifling dissent and curtailing civil liberties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Russia is not condemned to authoritarian rule.

The New York Times

Mr. Saleh's authoritarian rule began in 1978.

The New York Times

Meanwhile Fiji has lurched towards ever more authoritarian rule.

The Economist

But does authoritarian rule have anything to do with it?

The New York Times

Latin America has a bitter history of authoritarian rule.

The New York Times

Three decades of repressive authoritarian rule had crippled civil society.

The Economist

The Communist Party's authoritarian rule leads to widespread corruption.

The New York Times

In 1970 Syria came under the authoritarian rule of Pres.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Under the authoritarian rule of Suharto, the monument was restored.

The New York Times

Both newspapers often criticized Mr. Mugabe's authoritarian rule.

The New York Times

His authoritarian rule was characterized by contradictory trends.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing political systems, use "authoritarian rule" to specifically denote a system characterized by strong central power and limited political freedoms. Be precise in distinguishing it from other forms of government.

Common error

Avoid using "authoritarian rule" interchangeably with "authoritative leadership". "Authoritarian" carries a negative connotation, implying oppression, while "authoritative" suggests expertise and respect. Choose your words carefully to reflect the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "authoritarian rule" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a particular form of governance characterized by concentrated power and limited freedoms. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its usage in various contexts, reflecting its role in political and historical discourse.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "authoritarian rule" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe a governing system characterized by concentrated power and limited freedoms. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent appearance in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. When writing, it is essential to use this phrase precisely to denote political systems accurately, bearing in mind the specific nuances and connotations that distinguish it from other related terms like "authoritative leadership". Alternatives include "dictatorial governance" and "repressive regime", each emphasizing different aspects of the governing system. This complete review should provide writers all the best tips on how to correctly use "authoritarian rule".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dictatorial governance

Emphasizes the dictatorial nature of the governing power, focusing on a single ruler's absolute control.

despotic regime

Highlights the oppressive and tyrannical aspects of the governing system.

autocratic leadership

Focuses on the self-ruling aspect of the leadership, where decisions are made without consultation.

repressive regime

Stresses the suppression of dissent and individual freedoms by the government.

tyrannical government

Emphasizes the unjust and cruel use of power by the government.

undemocratic regime

Highlights the lack of democratic principles and processes in the governing system.

autocratic system

Focuses on the system of governance being centered around a single, powerful figure.

one-man rule

Underscores the concentration of power in a single individual.

totalitarian state

Indicates a system where the state controls all aspects of public and private life.

authoritative government

Highlights a government that exerts strong control and demands obedience, though not necessarily in a negative sense.

FAQs

How to use "authoritarian rule" in a sentence?

"Authoritarian rule" is used to describe a system of government characterized by strong central power and limited political freedoms. For example: "The country suffered under decades of "authoritarian rule".".

What can I say instead of "authoritarian rule"?

You can use alternatives like "dictatorial governance", "despotic regime", or "repressive regime" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "authoritarian rule" and "totalitarian state"?

"Authoritarian rule" refers to a system with strong central power and limited political freedoms, while a "totalitarian state" involves the government controlling nearly every aspect of public and private life. Totalitarianism is a more extreme form of authoritarianism.

Is "authoritarian rule" always negative?

While "authoritarian rule" is generally associated with negative connotations due to its suppression of freedoms, its impact can vary. The term itself describes a structure of power, and its moral implications depend on how that power is exercised. In any case, it's advisable to consider carefully "repressive rule".