totalitarian
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /təʊˈtælɪˌtɛrɪən/
KK: /toʊˈtælɪˌtɛrɪən/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a system of government where the state holds total control over all aspects of life, and individual freedoms are greatly restricted.
Example
In a totalitarian state, citizens often have little to no freedom of expression.
Conversation
Did you read about the new government in that country?
Yeah, it sounds pretty totalitarian to me.
I can't believe how much control they have over people's lives.
It's scary how a totalitarian regime can suppress freedom like that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
autocratic
oppressive
dictatorial
Antonyms
democratic
liberal
permissive
noun
Definition
A person who supports or practices a system of government where the state has complete control over all aspects of life and individual freedoms are limited.
Example
The totalitarian imposed strict rules that controlled every part of citizens' lives.
Conversation
Have you ever read about a totalitarian regime?
Yeah, it's fascinating how they control everything.
I always wonder how people can support a totalitarian leader.
Root Explanation
Totalitarian → It is formed from "totalis" (from Latin, meaning whole or complete) and "-arian" (meaning relating to or characterized by). The word describes a system of government that seeks to control all aspects of public and private life, thus representing a complete or total control.
Memory Tip
Think of 'total' meaning whole or complete, and '-arian' indicating a relation. This helps you remember that 'totalitarian' refers to a system that seeks total control.
Visually Confused Words
solitarian
tatarian
brutalitarian