repress
//rɪˈpres//
Translation
repress
Definition
To repress means to restrain, hold back, or prevent something from being expressed, especially emotions, thoughts, or desires, often through conscious or subconscious effort. It can also refer to the act of suppressing or controlling a group of people through force or authority, typically in a political or social context. In psychology, repression involves blocking painful or uncomfortable memories from conscious awareness. This verb is commonly used in formal or academic discussions about emotional regulation, trauma, and authoritarian governance. Unlike 'suppress,' which often implies a more deliberate and conscious action, 'repress' can involve both conscious and unconscious mechanisms.
Example
“She tried to repress her anger during the meeting to avoid an argument.”
“The government used military force to repress the uprising.”
“He had repressed memories of the accident for years before they resurfaced in therapy.”
“It is unhealthy to constantly repress your true feelings.”
“The dictator's regime was known to repress any form of dissent.”
“She had to repress a laugh when he tripped over his own feet.”
“Many people repress their childhood traumas as a coping mechanism.”
“The law was used to repress minority communities and limit their rights.”
“He could no longer repress his desire to travel the world.”
“The teacher tried to repress her frustration with the disruptive students.”
Synonyms