Dystopian
mediumNegative tonedis-TOH-pee-un
adjective
Definition
Relating to or denoting an imagined state or society where there is great suffering or injustice
Memory hook
DYS-topian: a BAD PLACE - think 1984 or The Hunger Games, societies gone horribly wrong.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The novel depicted a dystopian future of environmental collapse.”
“Dystopian films often warn about current social trends.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The novel depicted a ______ future of environmental collapse.”
Show answer
dystopian
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Dystopian is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "nightmarish" or "bleak" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "utopian".
Related GRE Words
onerous
burdensome; involving a great deal of effort or difficulty
torturous
Involving or causing torture or suffering; painful
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
abstract
Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
acclaim
Enthusiastic public praise or approval
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