rule of terror

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rule of terror" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or period characterized by extreme oppression, fear, and violence, often associated with a government or regime. Example: "The revolution led to a rule of terror, where dissent was met with brutal consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

His weekly broadcasts excoriating Pinochet's rule of terror were legendary.

The Guardian - Books

With the beginning of his second term, in 1928, a rule of terror began.

Britannica

People everywhere prefer freedom to slavery, prosperity to squalor, self-government to the rule of terror and torture.

The Guardian

But "Spy TV" is something else; it operates not by the rules of show biz but by the rule of terror.

The New Yorker

Some observers have attrib uted the disclosure to a pre sumed Soviet dissident faction that opposes the present leader ship's reluctance to publicize Stalin's rule of terror.

The New York Times

"Fourth, moral authority, that's lacking," he told reporters, then for the second time in two days accused Chinese officials of a "rule of terror" in Tibet.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

A different criticism of Austin's command theory is that a theory which portrays law solely in terms of power fails to distinguish rules of terror from forms of governance sufficiently just that they are accepted as legitimate (or at least as reasons for action) by their own citizens.

SEP

In the dying days of imperial rule, the British maintained their rule by acts of terror like the Amritsar massacre and the frenzy of colonial violence that followed the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya.

The Guardian

"The project aims to be a response, in helping the Syrians, empowering them to take their destiny back into their hands, back from the rule of arms and terror, into the rule of law and democracy," said Afra Jalabi, a political scientist based in Montreal who is a member of the project's executive committee.

The New York Times

Perhaps on purpose, the symbols of Colonel Mengistu's rule remain as reminders of terror and war.

The New York Times

Magha's rule, a veritable reign of terror, lasted until 1255 and was marked by bold disregard of traditional authority and of established religion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing historical events or political situations, use "rule of terror" to accurately convey the severity and impact of oppressive regimes on the population.

Common error

While similar, "rule of terror" generally refers to the systematic use of fear to maintain control, whereas the "reign of terror" specifically references a historical period during the French Revolution. Use the former for general oppressive governance and the latter for its historical context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rule of terror" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific type of governance characterized by extreme violence and fear. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rule of terror" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that effectively describes a regime or situation characterized by extreme oppression, fear, and violence. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread and accepted. Predominantly found in news and encyclopedic contexts, this phrase serves to objectively depict and often condemn political scenarios marked by systematic violence. While the "reign of terror" refers to a specific historical period, "rule of terror" is a broader term applicable to any governance sustained through fear. When writing, remember to accurately portray the gravity and impact of oppressive regimes by employing "rule of terror" and avoid confusing it with its historical counterpart.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reign of terror

This alternative evokes a similar sense of widespread violence and oppression, often associated with a specific period or regime.

regime of terror

This alternative emphasizes the systematic nature of the terror, suggesting a deliberate policy of fear by the governing power.

climate of fear

This alternative focuses on the psychological impact of the oppressive rule, highlighting the pervasive anxiety and insecurity.

oppressive rule

This alternative highlights the suppressive nature of the governance, emphasizing the lack of freedom and rights.

tyrannical regime

This alternative underscores the autocratic and dictatorial nature of the ruling power.

authoritarian control

This alternative stresses the strict and centralized power exerted by the governing entity.

reign of oppression

This alternative emphasizes the systemic and prolonged suppression of rights and freedoms.

police state

This alternative describes a state where the government maintains control through intrusive surveillance and repression.

despotic government

This alternative highlights the cruel and arbitrary nature of the ruling power.

repressive regime

This alternative indicates a system where the government actively suppresses dissent and opposition.

FAQs

What is another way to say "rule of terror"?

Alternatives include "reign of terror", "regime of terror", or "climate of fear", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How does "rule of terror" differ from "oppression"?

"Oppression" refers to the general act of subjugating a group or people, while "rule of terror" specifies a method of governance that relies on fear and violence to maintain control. A "tyrannical regime" might use a "rule of terror" to enforce its oppressive policies.

Can "rule of terror" be used to describe non-governmental entities?

Yes, while often associated with governments, "rule of terror" can describe any group or organization that uses systematic fear and violence to control others, such as a "criminal organization" or "terrorist group".

What are some historical examples of a "rule of terror"?

Examples include Stalin's regime in the Soviet Union, Pol Pot's regime in Cambodia, and Pinochet's dictatorship in Chile, each characterized by widespread violence, repression, and fear as a means of maintaining power. The "reign of terror" during the French Revolution is another prominent example.