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disempower

verb

/ˌdɪs ɛmˈpaʊ ər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of disempower

To diminish or reduce someone's power, authority, or influence.
"The legislation could potentially disempower local governments."

Detailed meaning of disempower

It involves taking away or weakening the individual's ability to exert control, make decisions, or effectively participate in a particular domain. Disempowering someone often involves systematic or deliberate actions that undermine their confidence, autonomy, or access to resources, thereby limiting their ability to effect change or assert their rights. This term is commonly used in social, political, and organizational contexts where individuals or groups may face oppression, marginalization, or discrimination. Disempowerment can occur through various means, such as imposing restrictive policies, withholding information, silencing voices, or creating oppressive systems. It reflects a dynamic where power is intentionally wielded to disengage and undermine individuals or communities, ultimately reducing their agency and ability to shape their own circumstances.

Example sentences containing disempower

1. The dictator's oppressive rule aimed to disempower the voices of dissent.
2. They used misinformation to disempower their political opponents.
3. The new policy threatens to disempower local communities.
4. In times of crisis, leaders must avoid actions that disempower their citizens.
5. The law sought to disempower monopolistic corporations.
6. Empowering women in leadership roles can help disempower gender bias.

History and etymology of disempower

The verb 'disempower' is a relatively modern term, emerging in the late 20th century to describe the action of diminishing or reducing someone's power, authority, or influence. It's a combination of two elements: 'dis-' and 'empower.' The prefix 'dis-' is derived from Latin and signifies negation or reversal. On the other hand, 'empower' comes from the Old English word 'empoer,' which means 'to give power or authority to.' So, when examining the etymology of 'disempower,' we find that it essentially conveys the idea of taking away or negating the empowerment that one previously possessed, reflecting the contemporary discourse around power dynamics and authority.

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Further usage examples of disempower

1. Education is a powerful tool to disempower ignorance and prejudice.
2. Bullies often try to disempower their victims through intimidation.
3. Economic inequality can disempower marginalized communities.
4. Empathy and understanding can help disempower conflicts.
5. It's essential to disempower discrimination and promote inclusivity.
6. The dictator sought to disempower his political opponents.
7. She used her influence to disempower the corrupt officials.
8. The oppressive regime aimed to disempower the marginalized communities.
9. The company's policies disempower workers by limiting their rights.
10. The restrictive laws are designed to disempower minority groups.
11. The manipulative leader tries to disempower anyone who challenges his authority.
12. The education system should not disempower students by limiting their creativity.
13. The goal of the organization is to disempower oppressive systems.
14. The corporate structure tends to disempower individual employees.
15. The media often has the power to disempower certain narratives.
16. The discriminatory practices disempower individuals based on their race.
17. The government's actions are seen as an attempt to disempower civil society.
18. The lack of resources can disempower communities struggling with poverty.
19. The outdated policies disempower women in the workplace.
20. The legal system can sometimes disempower victims of injustice.
21. The hierarchical structure disempowers lower-level employees.
22. The social norms disempower individuals who don't conform.
23. The restrictive regulations disempower entrepreneurs and stifle innovation.
24. The oppressive practices of the regime disempower citizens and suppress dissent.