C1verbformal3K

Suppress

UK /["/səˈpres/","/səˈpresɪz/","/səˈprest/","/səˈpresɪŋ/"]/US /["/səˈpres/","/səˈpresɪz/","/səˈprest/","/səˈpresɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to put an end, often by force, to a group or an activity that is believed to threaten authority

In simple words: To stop something from happening or being expressed.

Examples

  • The government tried to suppress the political dissent during the protests.
  • She had to suppress her laughter during the serious meeting.
  • The medication can help suppress the symptoms of the flu.
  • They tried to suppress the evidence that could incriminate them.
  • The army was ordered to suppress the rebellion swiftly to restore order.

Usage notes

This word is typically used in formal contexts. It can refer to controlling emotions, information, or actions. Avoid using it in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

suppress + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'suppressed' feelings — imagine someone holding back tears.

Collocations

  • brutally
  • ruthlessly
  • violently
  • attempt to
  • seek to
  • try to
  • an attempt to suppress something
  • completely
  • effectively
  • deliberately
  • attempt to
  • seek to
  • try to
  • an attempt to suppress something
  • barely
  • hardly
  • instantly
  • be unable to
  • cannot
  • try to

Synonyms

  • quash

Antonyms

  • express
  • release
  • unleash

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'repress' — 'suppress' means to stop something actively, while 'repress' means to hold back feelings.
  • Using 'suppress' without an object — always specify what is being suppressed, like information or emotions.
  • Mixing up 'suppress' with 'sustain' — 'sustain' means to maintain, while 'suppress' means to stop.