oprimir

Senses

1. 1.

   to oppress

   to exercise harsh authority or power over someone, keeping them subjugated

2. 2.

   to crush, to weigh down

   to cause physical or emotional discomfort through pressure or burden

3. 3.

   to stifle, to suffocate

   to inhibit freedom of expression or breathing

Examples

• "O regime ditatorial oprimia o povo há décadas."

  The dictatorial regime had been oppressing the people for decades.

• "A tristeza oprimia seu coração depois da perda."

  Sadness weighed down her heart after the loss.

• "Não deixe que o medo te oprima e te impeça de seguir em frente."

  Don't let fear crush you and keep you from moving forward.

Usage

Formal register, commonly used in political, social justice, and emotional contexts. Often collocates with "povo" (people), "minorias" (minorities), "sentimento" (feeling). Regular -ir verb conjugation.