noun
regime
ruh-ZHEEM
noun
1
A government in power, especially one seen as authoritarian.
"The regime cracked down harshly on protesters."
"International sanctions targeted the ruling regime."
2
A structured system or set of rules governing something.
"The new tax regime affects small businesses the most."
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
Word Forms
regimes plural
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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.