dictatorial

One entry found for dictatorial.

Main Entry: dic·ta·to·ri·al
Pronunciation: "dik-t&-'tor-E-&l
Function: adjective
1 a : of, relating to, or befitting a dictator <dictatorial power> b : ruled by a dictator
2 : oppressive to or arrogantly overbearing toward others
- dic·ta·to·ri·al·ly /-E-&-lE/ adverb
- dic·ta·to·ri·al·ness noun
synonyms DICTATORIAL, MAGISTERIAL, DOGMATIC, DOCTRINAIRE, ORACULAR mean imposing one's will or opinions on others. DICTATORIAL stresses autocratic, high-handed methods and a domineering manner <exercised dictatorial control over the office>. MAGISTERIAL stresses assumption or use of prerogatives appropriate to a magistrate or schoolmaster in forcing acceptance of one's opinions <the magisterial tone of his pronouncements>. DOGMATIC implies being unduly and offensively positive in laying down principles and expressing opinions <dogmatic about what is art and what is not>. DOCTRINAIRE implies a disposition to follow abstract theories in framing laws or policies affecting people <a doctrinaire approach to improving the economy>. ORACULAR implies the manner of one who delivers opinions in cryptic phrases or with pompous dogmatism <a designer who is the oracular voice of fashion>.