Definition

Describing a system or government that is not totalitarian, meaning it does not have absolute control over all aspects of life and allows for some degree of freedom and individual rights.

Example

The new government is nontotalitarian, promoting democracy and personal freedoms.

Conversation

I was reading about different governments, and I found the term nontotalitarian interesting.

Oh really? What does it mean?

It basically refers to systems that aren't totalitarian, allowing more personal freedoms.

That sounds much better than living under a totalitarian regime!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nontotalitarian → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "totalitarian" (from Latin "totalis", meaning total, and "-itarian", relating to a system of governance). The word describes a system that is not totalitarian, indicating a political structure that does not exert total control over its citizens.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning not, and 'totalitarian' relating to a system that has total control. This helps you remember that 'nontotalitarian' refers to a system that does not have total control.

Visually Confused Words