reign of terror

• Période pendant laquelle un dirigeant ou un gouvernement recourt à une violence extrême, à l'intimidation et à l'oppression pour conserver le pouvoir, souvent associée à la Terreur pendant la Révolution française (1793-1794).

A period during which a ruler or government uses extreme violence, intimidation, and oppression to maintain control, often associated with the French Revolution's Reign of Terror (1793-1794).

1. Period of violent oppressionB2formal

   A period during which a ruler or government uses extreme violence, fear, and intimidation to maintain control.

   règne de la terreur

   • The country suffered under a reign of terror for over a decade.
   • The dictator's reign of terror ended with his capture.
   • Many citizens fled the region during the reign of terror.

2. Historical period (French Revolution)B2formal

   Specifically refers to the period from 1793 to 1794 in France, when the revolutionary government executed thousands of perceived enemies.

   La Terreur

   • The Reign of Terror saw thousands executed by guillotine.
   • Robespierre was a key figure during the Reign of Terror.
   • Historians debate the causes of the Reign of Terror.

3. Figurative useC1informal

   Any situation characterized by fear, intimidation, or harsh control.

   règne de la terreur

   • The new manager's reign of terror made everyone afraid to speak up.
   • The office experienced a reign of terror after the audit.
   • Living under that boss was a reign of terror for the employees.