bout of repression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bout of repression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period or episode characterized by the suppression of thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. Example: "During that difficult time, she experienced a bout of repression, pushing away her emotions instead of confronting them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Too fierce a bout of repression could backfire.

The Economist

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

The Economist

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

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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Since they erupted in mid-March, the protests have demonstrated a remarkable resilience, despite the bouts of repression, among the most ferocious in the region.

The New York Times

SINCE its founding in Egypt in 1928 the Muslim Brotherhood has suffered repeated bouts of repression, defections by jihadist radicals and liberal moderates alike, and fractious disputes over regional crises, such as Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in 1990.

The Economist

Bahrain is braced for a fresh bout of violent repression as new arrests and the alleged death of a female student fuel sectarian tensions in the tiny Gulf state.

The Guardian

NO ONE knows whether the Iranian regime's latest bout of violent repression marks an ill-judged step towards its own much-merited demise or if it will cow the dissenters into sullen but long-lasting acquiescence.

The Economist

But this is just further proof of its attractiveness.FELIPE LARRAÍN Former minister of finance of Chile SantiagoDeadly precedent"Uncontrolled violence" (March 7th) mentioned the fears of Russian liberals that the murder of Boris Nemtsov "will be used to unleash a new bout of political repression, as happened in 1934 after the murder of Sergei Kirov, a charismatic Bolshevik leader".

The Economist

The opposition, he said, would sacrifice one of their own and blame the Kremlin.Many Russian liberals fear that the killing of Mr Nemtsov will be used to unleash a new bout of political repression, as happened in 1934 after the murder of Sergei Kirov, a charismatic Bolshevik leader.

The Economist

At best, negotiators are relying on a new American president to inject a fresh dose of hope into the process.Since July 25th the Palestinians have been engaged in one of their fiercest bouts of internal repression and counter-repression since Hamas's violent takeover of the Gaza Strip just over a year ago.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bout of repression", ensure the context clearly establishes the specific area or group being repressed to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "a bout of political repression" or "a bout of religious repression".

Common error

While "bout of repression" is grammatically correct, it carries a serious connotation. Avoid using it in casual or trivial situations where the term "repression" is not genuinely applicable, as this can diminish the impact of the term when describing genuinely oppressive scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bout of repression" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object to describe a specific instance of suppressive actions. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, where the phrase is used to denote a period of political or social oppression.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bout of repression" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a specific episode of forceful suppression, as confirmed by Ludwig. While its usage is relatively rare, it is primarily found in news and media contexts, indicating a neutral register. Related phrases include "period of suppression" and "wave of oppression", each offering slightly different nuances. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly identifies what is being repressed to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

period of suppression

Focuses on the act of suppressing something, rather than the episode itself.

wave of oppression

Suggests a more forceful and widespread suppression.

episode of tyranny

Implies a more authoritarian and unjust form of control.

clampdown on dissent

Specifically targets the suppression of opposing views.

crackdown on freedom

Emphasizes the restriction of liberties.

surge of authoritarianism

Highlights a rise in dictatorial power.

spell of political control

Focuses on the political dimension of the suppression.

era of censorship

Highlights the suppression of information and expression.

time of political persecution

Emphasizes unjust treatment due to political beliefs.

phase of strict control

Implies a temporary period of tight regulations.

FAQs

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

You can use "bout of repression" to describe a period marked by the suppression of certain activities, beliefs, or freedoms, such as, "The country experienced a "bout of repression" following the failed uprising".

What are some alternatives to "bout of repression"?

Depending on the specific context, you might consider using terms like "period of suppression", "wave of oppression", or "crackdown on dissent".

What is the difference between "bout of repression" and "period of suppression"?

"Bout of repression" implies a specific, often shorter-term episode, whereas "period of suppression" suggests a more extended duration of oppressive actions.

Is "bout of repression" formal or informal language?

"Bout of repression" is generally considered formal and is suitable for news reports, academic writing, and other contexts where a serious and objective tone is required.