subjugate

What does “subjugate” mean?

verb.to bring under domination or control, especially by conquest.

SAT Usage

this verb often appears in contexts related to historical conquests, political power struggles, or social hierarchies. It emphasizes the forceful and often oppressive nature of control, suggesting a loss of autonomy, which differentiates it from similar words like "dominate," which may not carry the same connotation of subjugation or violence.

Common Confusions

Subjugate implies the forceful domination or control often through violence, while dominate usually suggests a more general or less oppressive influence without the connotation of subservience or conquest.

Example Sentences

• Conquerors often sought to subjugate the local population.

• The tyrant sought to subjugate the rebellious provinces, deploying his army to crush any resistance and impose his harsh rule.

Word Parts: How to Remember “subjugate”

Break “subjugate” into its parts: sub- (under, below). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: sub- under, below (Latin)