

What words mean the opposite of tyranny? These words with an opposite or very similar meaning are called antonyms antonyms can help us paint a clearer picture to our audience. Synonyms help us in many ways, from expanding our vocabulary to helping us avoid repeating ourselves in written papers and spoken conversations.īelow you will find a list of synonyms of tyranny. While a synonym may have a different tone and connotation, synonyms are words with the same meaning. What are Synonyms and Antonyms of the Word Tyranny?
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How to Use the Word Tyranny in Conversation The noun tyranny (middle English tyrannie) was first used in the late 14th century, from the old French tyrannie, the Medieval Latin tyrannia, and the Latin tyrannus. In contrast, one of the most well-known definitions of tyranny comes from ancient Greece around the times of Aristotle, who held tyranny in a very negative light. Most notably, the Greek philosopher Plato saw tyranny of a certain kind as positive. According to Ancient Greek history, the word described a person who held personal absolute power within the state.Īs time has progressed, how others have viewed tyranny has varied. The original Greek term, tyrannos (τύραννος) was not necessarily defined as a bad ruler. It now often connotes illegitimate possession or an abuse of power.

It was not until its modern adaptation that it became primarily pejorative. Originally, the word tyranny was not necessarily pejorative in essence, it signified the holder of absolute power in parts of history. This is especially true when referencing the oppressive power that can be exerted by any single government, for instance, “the tyranny of a police state.” What Is the Origin and History of the Word Tyranny? This word can also mean a form of government where a tyrant or ruler has vested absolute power. What Does Tyranny Mean?Īccording to the Collins Dictionary of the English language, tyranny is an oppressive, unjust, or harsh act. If your mother refuses to let you stay up late on a school night, is that an act of tyranny? Not quite - this article is here to understand the meaning behind the word tyranny better.
