regime
ruh-ZHEEM
Regime (noun) means a government in power, especially one seen as authoritarian. Example: “The regime cracked down harshly on protesters.”
noun
1
A government in power, especially one seen as authoritarian.
"The regime cracked down harshly on protesters."
"International sanctions targeted the ruling regime."
"Many citizens left the country after the new regime closed the newspapers."
2
A structured system or set of rules governing something.
"The new tax regime affects small businesses the most."
"The gym has a strict training regime that all its members follow."
"Her doctor put her on a regime of rest and light food."
How to use regime
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA system of government or rule, often used with a negative tone when describing harsh or oppressive governments.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "regimen," which usually refers to a personal routine, like a diet or exercise plan.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
authoritarian regime
regime change
tax regime
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Word forms
- Plural
- regimes
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The _____ cracked down harshly on protesters.
Etymology
From Middle French regime, from Latin regimen, "direction, government." It is a doublet of regimen.
Related words
Rhymes for regime
See all rhymes for regime →Frequently asked questions
What does “regime” mean?
The word “regime” means a government in power, especially one seen as authoritarian. In plain terms, a system of government or rule, often used with a negative tone when describing harsh or oppressive governments.
How do you pronounce “regime”?
“Regime” is pronounced ruh-ZHEEM (/ɹəˈʒiːm/ in IPA).
How do you use “regime” in a sentence?
Here is “regime” used in a sentence: “The regime cracked down harshly on protesters.”
What part of speech is “regime”?
“Regime” is a noun.
Where does the word “regime” come from?
The word “regime” comes from Latin. From Middle French regime, from Latin regimen, "direction, government." It is a doublet of regimen.
Is “regime” a common word?
“Regime” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “regime” have?
“Regime” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a government in power, especially one seen as authoritarian.
What is the difference between 'regime' and 'regimen'?
'Regime' usually refers to a government in power, often an authoritarian one, or to a system of rules governing something. 'Regimen' refers specifically to a planned routine, especially for health, such as a diet or exercise regimen, though 'regime' is sometimes used loosely for a routine too.
What is the difference between 'regime' and 'government'?
'Government' is a neutral term for the body that runs a country, while 'regime' often carries a negative tone, suggesting a government that is authoritarian, unelected, or oppressive. Calling a government a 'regime' typically signals disapproval.
Is calling a government a 'regime' negative?
Yes, describing a government as a 'regime' usually carries a critical or hostile connotation, implying that it rules harshly or without legitimacy. Neutral or approving descriptions are more likely to use 'government' or 'administration.'
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