WordValeoligarchy
rule by a small privileged group
In more detail
1. (noun) a system of government in which power is held by a small group of people; these people might be distinguished by wealth, family ties, education, or military power
2. (noun) a country or organization controlled by such a small group of people
Examples
- 1. The company is run as an oligarchy, with decisions made by just five wealthy investors.
- 2. Many critics argue that some democracies have become oligarchies controlled by the richest citizens.
How to use oligarchy
Oligarchy describes a political system where a small, elite group holds power, often based on wealth, family status, or military control. It is typically used in political science and journalism to analyze power structures, and carries a negative or critical connotation. The term is broader than autocracy (single ruler) and narrower than democracy (rule by many).
Common phrases
- oligarch rules
- oligarchic system
- corporate oligarchy
- Russian oligarchs
- oligarchy of the wealthy
- fall into oligarchy
Synonyms
rule by the few · plutocracy · aristocracy · tyranny · authoritarian regime
Opposites
democracy · autocracy
Word family
oligarch (noun) · oligarchic (adjective) · oligarchical (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse oligarchy with autocracy; oligarchy involves multiple power-holders from a small group, while autocracy involves a single ruler.
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