Word
demagogue
Meanings
A political leader who manipulates public opinion by appealing to emotions, fears, and prejudices rather than facts or careful reasoning.
Definition
A demagogue is a political leader who gains support by stirring up emotions and prejudices rather than using reasoned argument.
A demagogue is someone, usually in politics, who tries to win power or influence by appealing to people’s fears, anger, or biases. Instead of offering realistic solutions, they often use simple slogans, scapegoats, and dramatic claims. The word is typically critical, suggesting manipulation of public opinion.
Examples
- I stopped trusting the demagogue once he began blaming every problem on a single group.
- You can recognize a demagogue by how quickly he shifts from evidence to outrage and spectacle.
- She challenged the demagogue in the debate, calmly asking for details he couldn’t provide.
- They feared the demagogue would exploit the crisis to weaken democratic institutions.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use "demagogue" as a general synonym for "politician," but it specifically implies manipulative, emotion-driven leadership.
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