French Conversation · Level 42
75 words
French word
autoritaire
Pronunciation
IPA/otoʁitɛʁ/
Meaning
- adjectiveauthoritarian
Example
Le régime est autoritaire.
The regime is authoritarian.
More examples
Dans la classe, le professeur est parfois autoritaire.
In class, the teacher is sometimes authoritarian.
Core concept
A single voice stands above the group, with decisions flowing downward and debate blocked.
Common phrases
comportement autoritaire
authoritarian behavior
approche autoritaire
authoritarian approach
ton autoritaire
authoritarian tone
Similar words
dominateur: Displaying a strong desire to control and direct other people.
strict: Demanding close adherence to rules or established procedures.
ferme: Resolute in decisions and clear in attitude or conduct.
sévère: Applying harsh standards or penalties without indulgence.
Definition in French
Qui, par son comportement ou ses décisions, impose sa volonté sans tolérer la discussion ou la remise en question.
Word origin
French formed autoritaire from autorité by adding -aire; autorité ultimately comes from the Latin noun auctoritas.
Usage tips
- English authoritative can mean respected for knowledge, whereas French autoritaire usually describes imposed control or intolerance of opposition.
Other meanings
- domineeringadjective
- imperiousadjective
Opposites
- permissifpermissiveadjective
- toléranttolerantadjective
Related words
- autoritarismeauthoritarianismnoun
- autoritairementin an authoritarian manneradverb