absolute force

[/ˈæbsəluːt fɔːrs/]
nounpl: absolute forces
força absoluta
1. Unlimited or unrestricted power; authority that cannot be challenged or limited by law or other constraints
The dictator ruled with absolute force, allowing no opposition.
O ditador governou com força absoluta, não permitindo oposição.
2. In physics, a fundamental force or power that is not dependent on reference frames or relative conditions
The concept of absolute force in Newtonian mechanics has been refined by modern physics.
O conceito de força absoluta na mecânica newtoniana foi refinado pela física moderna.
3. Complete, undeniable power or strength used to enforce compliance or achieve objectives
The regime used absolute force to suppress any dissent.
O regime usou força absoluta para suprimir qualquer dissidência.
This term is frequently referenced in discussions of authoritarianism, political philosophy, and history. In Brazil, it often appears in political discourse regarding governance and state power. In the USA, it's commonly used when discussing tyranny, dictatorship, and separation of powers, reflecting the democratic values embedded in American political culture.
NYC Slang
iron fist
Synonyms / Sinônimos
unlimited powersupreme authoritybrute forcetotalitarian powercoercive power
Antonyms / Antônimos
limited powerrelative forcerestrained authorityconditional powerdemocratic power

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
força absoluta
Standard term used in political and legal contexts
Portugal
força absoluta
Same usage as Brazilian Portuguese; common in academic discourse
Rio de Janeiro
força absoluta
Used colloquially to describe overwhelming power or authority
São Paulo
força absoluta
Formal usage predominantly in business and legal settings

Related Words

authoritarianismtyrannycoercionsovereigntydespotism

Related Idioms & Phrases

rule with an iron fist
have the upper hand
hold all the cards
wield absolute power
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →