The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

anarchy

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Dictionary definition of anarchy

A state of lawlessness or disorder, characterized by chaos and violence, especially due to an absence or non-recognition of authority.
"The country was plunged into anarchy after the collapse of the government."

Detailed meaning of anarchy

Anarchy is generally defined as a state of society without government or law, or a political philosophy advocating such a state. Anarchy as a concept can be understood in different ways, but generally it is characterized by a lack of centralized authority and order. Anarchists believe in self-governance and the power of individuals to make their own decisions without interference from a ruling body. They argue that this can be achieved through direct democracy and local community-based decision making, rather than relying on a centralized government.

Example sentences containing anarchy

1. He believed in a society without government, a state of anarchy.
2. The city was in anarchy as the citizens rioted in the streets.
3. The rebellion aimed to overthrow the government and establish anarchy.
4. The state of anarchy made it impossible for aid to reach the affected areas.
5. The group advocated for anarchy as a political ideology.
6. The society was in anarchy as there was no one in charge to enforce laws.

History and etymology of anarchy

The noun 'anarchy' has its etymological roots in ancient Greek. It is derived from the Greek word 'anarkhia,' which combines 'an' (meaning 'without') and 'arkhos' (meaning 'ruler' or 'authority'). In its original Greek form, 'anarkhia' referred to a state of society without a recognized governing authority or ruler. Over time, the term transitioned into English with the same fundamental meaning, describing a state of lawlessness, disorder, and chaos characterized by the absence or non-recognition of authority or government. 'Anarchy' signifies a condition where individuals or groups act independently without centralized control, often resulting in a lack of social order and stability. Therefore, the etymology of 'anarchy' underscores its use as a noun to depict a state of societal breakdown and disorder due to the absence of recognized authority.

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Further usage examples of anarchy

1. The state of anarchy made it difficult for businesses to operate.
2. The anarchy caused by the disaster made it difficult for rescue teams to reach the affected areas.
3. He was accused of inciting anarchy and inciting violence.
4. The anarchy that ensued after the coup made it difficult for the new government to restore order.
5. The revolution aimed to overthrow the government and establish anarchy.
6. The city plunged into anarchy as the government crumbled, leaving chaos and lawlessness in its wake.
7. Anarchy prevailed in the lawless border region, where rival factions fought for control amid a vacuum of authority.
8. What began as peaceful protests soon spiraled into anarchy, resulting in widespread destruction and unrest.
9. The absence of a central governing authority often leads to anarchy, where individuals and groups act without restraint.
10. Anarchy can be a dire consequence of a failed state, where basic law and order erode, leaving citizens vulnerable.
11. The radical anarchist group aimed to overthrow the government and replace it with a state of anarchy.
12. In times of war, anarchy can engulf even the most stable regions, disrupting the lives of civilians.
13. The unchecked anarchy that followed the revolution tore at the social fabric of the community.
14. The dystopian film depicted a world on the brink of anarchy, where chaos and violence reigned.
15. Maintaining order through effective governance is crucial to preventing the descent into anarchy.
16. Anarchy often arises when people lose faith in their leaders and institutions, seeking alternative means of control.
17. The collapse of law and order in the aftermath of the crisis plunged the region into anarchy.
18. The revolution that promised freedom quickly devolved into anarchy, plunging the nation into uncertainty.
19. The country teetered on the edge of anarchy as rival factions vied for power in the power vacuum.
20. The dictator's fall brought both hope for a brighter future and the fear of descending into anarchy.
21. The anarchy in the streets was a grim reminder of the fragile balance between order and chaos.
22. Anarchy, once unleashed, can lead to a vicious cycle of violence and societal breakdown.
23. The fragile peace brokered after years of conflict was threatened by the looming specter of anarchy.
24. Anarchy breeds uncertainty and instability, making it difficult for communities to rebuild and thrive.
25. A strong and effective government is essential to prevent the descent into anarchy, ensuring the rule of law and the protection of citizens' rights.