Oppressive

Pronunciation: /əˈprɛsɪv/

Oppressive (adjective)

  1. Causing discomfort or suffering through unfair treatment or heavy control.
  2. Making it difficult to breathe or feel comfortable, often due to heat or humidity.

Examples

  • The oppressive rules made it difficult for anyone to express their opinions.
  • The oppressive heat made it hard to concentrate on work.

Common collocations: oppressive regime, oppressive conditions, oppressive atmosphere, oppressive silence

Synonyms of Oppressive

Formal

Neutral

Antonyms of Oppressive

  • — Describes actions or conditions that promote freedom.
  • — Describes experiences that elevate one's spirits.