To oppress
Example: The regime used harsh laws to oppress the minority groups.
Definition
"To oppress" means to exercise authority or power in a cruel or unjust manner, often by subjugating or burdening a group or individual. It typically involves systematic harsh treatment or control, as seen in the phrase, 'The regime used harsh laws to oppress the minority groups.'
Etymology
The word "to oppress" comes from the Latin verb 'opprimere,' meaning 'to press down' or 'overwhelm.' It entered English in the late Middle Ages, carrying the sense of physically or metaphorically pressing down on someone, which evolved into the idea of unjust domination or control.
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"To oppress" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - History - (B2) - set 1", containing 210 commonly used words.
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