demagogue
demagogue
Pronunciation
The IPA phonetic spelling of "demagogue" is: /ˈdɛməɡɒɡ/
Here's a breakdown of the sounds in each syllable:
First syllable (DEM):
/d/ - voiced alveolar stop
/ɛ/ - mid front vowel
/m/ - bilabial nasal
Second syllable (uh):
/ə/ - schwa
Third syllable (gog):
/ɡ/ - voiced velar stop
/ɒ/ - open back vowel
/ɡ/ - voiced velar stop
Word Form Variations
The word "demagogue" is a noun, and its only word form variation is the plural form:
Singular: demagogue
Plural: demagogues
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Definitions, Synonyms, Antonyms
Noun:
A political leader who seeks support by appealing to the emotions and prejudices of people, rather than by using rational argument.
Synonyms: rabble-rouser, agitator, firebrand, populist
Antonyms: statesman, diplomat, conciliator
Verb:
(Rare) To behave like a demagogue; to manipulate people's emotions for political gain.
Synonyms: incite, inflame, agitate, stir up
Antonyms: calm, soothe, pacify
Adjective:
(Rare) Relating to or characteristic of a demagogue or demagoguery.
Synonyms: rabble-rousing, inflammatory, sensationalist, provocative
Antonyms: calm, reasonable, balanced, diplomatic
Examples of Use
In Books:
George Orwell's 1984: Orwell frequently employs the concept of manipulative language and power dynamics, which often involves demagogic figures. The Party's propaganda and the figure of Big Brother can be seen as examples of demagoguery.
Aldous Huxley's Brave New World: While not explicitly using the term, the World State's leaders manipulate their citizens through propaganda and emotional appeals, fitting the definition of demagogues.
In Newspapers and Online Publications:
The New York Times: Often uses the term to describe politicians who use divisive rhetoric to gain support, such as in articles analyzing the rise of populist movements.
The Guardian: Frequently employs the term to critique politicians and public figures who use emotionally charged language and fear-mongering tactics.
In Entertainment Media:
Films: Characters like Palpatine from Star Wars or certain villains in dystopian films often exhibit demagogic tendencies, using fear and prejudice to gain power.
Television: Shows like The West Wing or House of Cards frequently feature characters who manipulate public opinion and use divisive rhetoric, often fitting the definition of a demagogue.
In General Public Discourse:
Political Debates: The term is often used in political discussions to criticize politicians who use inflammatory language or make false claims to gain support.
Social Media: On platforms like Twitter and Facebook, the term is frequently used to describe politicians, influencers, or other public figures who spread misinformation or incite division.
It's important to note that the use of the term "demagogue" is often subjective and can be used to criticize politicians or public figures from across the political spectrum.
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10 Famous Quotes Using the term Demagogue
"A demagogue is a person with whom we disagree as to which gang should mismanage the country." — Don Marquis
"The demagogue is one who preaches doctrines he knows to be untrue to men he knows to be idiots." — H.L. Mencken
"Demagogues thrive in a climate of fear and ignorance." — Anonymous
"The demagogue relies not on reason but on the passions of the crowd." — Aristotle (paraphrased)
"A demagogue always promises the moon, but delivers only ashes." — Anonymous
"The demagogue sees the world in black and white, feeding the people half-truths and empty promises." — Anonymous
"A demagogue builds his power on the fears of the people, never on their hopes." — Anonymous
"Demagogues can be charming, but their words are poison." — Anonymous
"The most dangerous enemy of democracy is not the despot, but the demagogue who masquerades as a friend." — Anonymous
"A demagogue is a man who knows that truth is the most fragile of weapons." — Anonymous
Etymology
The word "demagogue" comes from the Greek words "demos," meaning "people," and "agogos," meaning "leader." So, originally, a demagogue was simply a leader of the people.
However, over time, the word took on a negative connotation. This happened because in ancient Greece, some leaders used powerful speeches to stir up the emotions of the people and gain power for themselves. They often used fear, anger, and prejudice to manipulate the crowd.
So, while the original meaning was neutral, the word "demagogue" now refers to a leader who uses these negative tactics to gain power and control.
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Phrases + Idioms Containing the term Demagogue
Due to the negative connotations associated with the word "demagogue," it's not commonly used in everyday phrases or idioms. However, we can explore some phrases that capture the essence of demagogic behavior:
Playing to the gallery: This phrase refers to the act of appealing to the emotions and prejudices of an audience, often for political gain.
Rabble-rousing: This term describes the act of stirring up strong emotions in a crowd, often with the intent to incite violence or unrest.
Fear-mongering: This refers to the practice of spreading fear and anxiety to manipulate people's opinions or actions.
Populist rhetoric: This phrase describes the use of language that appeals to the desires and prejudices of the common people.
Scapegoating: This is the practice of blaming a specific group or individual for problems or misfortunes.
While these phrases don't directly use the word "demagogue," they capture the core behaviors and tactics associated with demagogic leaders.
Posts Related to Demagogue
Source Information
Definition of demagogue from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
