Definition

The state of controlling or limiting people's freedom or expression in a harsh way.

Example

The government's repressiveness led to widespread protests among the citizens.

Conversation

Have you noticed the repressiveness in some environments lately?

Yeah, it really makes it hard for people to express themselves.

I think that kind of repressiveness can stifle creativity and ideas.

Absolutely! We need more open spaces for discussion.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Repressiveness → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again or back) and "press" (from Latin "premere", meaning to press). The suffix "-iveness" (meaning the quality of) indicates a state or condition. Thus, repressiveness refers to the quality of pressing back or holding down.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pressing back' ('re-' means again or back, and 'press' means to push down) to remember that repressiveness describes the quality of holding something down.

Visually Confused Words