suppression - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
suppression Word Meanings
- the act of stopping something from being seen, heard, or published
- the act of restraining or preventing something from developing or expressing itself
- the suppression of symptoms, desires, or emotions, especially in medical or psychological contexts
suppression Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
suppression Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/səˈprɛʃən/
US
/səˈprɛʃən/
suppression Word Etymology
Root decomposition: prefix sup- (variant of sub- before p) + root press + suffix -ion. Historical origin: from Latin suppressio, from suppressus (past participle of suppressere), via Old French soupression, into English. Memory image: a heavy press pushes words down into a sealed box, keeping them from coming out.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Suppression refers to the act of stopping something from being seen, heard, or published, as well as restraining or preventing development or expression. It can describe medical or psychological control of symptoms, desires, or emotions, or more generally the deliberate restraint of information or behavior by an authority. The word carries a sense of pushing back or holding down what might otherwise come to light, and it often appears in discussions of censorship, clinical treatment, or personal self-management. Its etymology traces to Latin suppressio, via Old French soupression, and the prefix sup- before press signals a downward action.
Usage Reminders
- Think of suppression as an active act of stopping something from being seen, heard, or published.
- It can also mean restraining development or expression.
- In medical or psychological contexts, suppression often refers to holding back symptoms, desires, or emotions.
- The noun is frequently used with verbs like implement, enforce, or practice suppression.
- Avoid confusing suppression with censorship or omission in everyday reporting.
Common Misconceptions
- Suppression is the same as censorship or censorship by a gatekeeper.
- It only refers to controlling emotions.
- It always happens openly or publicly.
- It has only negative connotations or outcomes.
- It is rarely used in everyday language.
Thinking Differences
In English, suppression is often treated as a concrete, sometimes clinical or legal concept, with clear noun usage and collocations. Learners tend to mix it with censorship or concealment and may miss its nuance of internal or controlled restraint.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: suppress a smile, suppress a cough, suppress symptoms.
- Differentiate suppression from censorship and concealment by context.
- Notice medical or psychological contexts where suppression is more likely.
- Pair with verbs like implement, enforce, or practice suppression.
- Use authentic examples to see nuance in intensity.
- Practice replacing broader phrases with suppression appropriately.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'suppression'?
A.Exploration
B.Hiding
C.Laughter
D.Friendship
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'suppression' used correctly?
A.Their friendship was built on suppression and trust.
B.He laughed with suppression when he heard the joke.
C.She always expressed her true feelings without any suppression.
D.The teacher encouraged the suppression of creativity in the classroom.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'suppression'?
A.Expression
B.Concealment
C.Revelation
D.Restraint
Step 4: Opposite Words
A real-life example of 'suppression' would be...
A.A government censoring information from the public
B.A celebration of creativity and self-expression
C.A society promoting open communication and transparency
D.A team working together harmoniously
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on a situation where 'suppression' might be harmful or beneficial, and share your thoughts.
A.Beneficial
B.Neutral
C.Harmful
D.Unsure
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