Totalitarian (Adjective)

Meaning ¹

Of or relating to the principles of totalitarianism according to which the state regulates every realm of life; "totalitarian theory and practice"; "operating in a totalistic fashion".

Classification

Relational adjectives (pertainyms).

Examples

• The country had become a totalitarian regime, with the government controlling every aspect of citizens' lives, from education to entertainment.
• Critics argued that the planned economic reforms would result in a totalitarian system, where the state would dictate the production and distribution of goods.
• Dystopian novels often depict totalitarian societies where individual freedom is nonexistent, and all citizens are forced to conform to the state's ideology.
• Totalitarian governments often employ propaganda to control public opinion, suppressing dissenting voices and opposition.
• The concept of a "social contract" was seen as incompatible with totalitarian theory, which denies individuals' autonomy and agency.

Synonyms

• Totalistic

Related Words

• Totalitarianism (noun)

Meaning ²

Characterized by a government in which the political authority exercises absolute and centralized control; "a totalitarian regime crushes all autonomous institutions in its drive to seize the human soul"- Arthur M.Schlesinger, Jr..

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Examples

• The totalitarian government used propaganda and surveillance to maintain its grip on the population.
• The novel depicted a dystopian future in which a totalitarian regime controlled every aspect of citizens' lives.
• Totalitarian leaders, such as Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin, often rule through a combination of fear, repression, and propaganda.
• In a totalitarian state, individual freedom is sacrificed for the supposed good of the state.
• Critics argue that the country's shift towards a more totalitarian government is eroding its democratic values.