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Explanation of the Word "Praetorian"

Definition: The word "praetorian" is an adjective that describes something that is related to the "Praetorian Guard," which was a group of elite soldiers in ancient Rome. These soldiers were responsible for protecting the emperor and had significant political influence.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "praetorian" to describe individuals, groups, or systems that display characteristics of corruption or political favoritism.
• It is often used in a negative context to imply that someone or something is more concerned with power and personal gain than with integrity or justice.

Example Sentence:

• "The new government was criticized for having a praetorian atmosphere, with officials more interested in their own power than in serving the public."

Advanced Usage:

• In political discussions, you might encounter "praetorian" used to refer to bureaucracies or groups within a government that prioritize their own interests over ethical governance.

Word Variants:

• Praetor: A Roman official who had judicial powers.
• Praetorship: The office or position of a praetor.

Different Meanings:

1. Historical Context: Relating to the Roman Praetorian Guard and their role in protecting the emperor.
2. Political Context: Describing a corrupt or self-serving group in modern-day governance.

Synonyms:

• Corrupt
• Self-serving
• Sycophantic (referring to someone who flatters powerful people for personal gain)
• Ambitious (in a negative sense)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "praetorian" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, understanding its context can help you recognize phrases that imply corruption or political maneuvering. Here are some related phrases: - "Backroom deals": Secret agreements made by politicians or officials for their benefit. - "Playing politics": Engaging in activities that prioritize political gain over ethical considerations.

Conclusion:

The word "praetorian" can be used to describe individuals, groups, or systems that exhibit corrupt behaviors or political manipulation, often in a way that prioritizes personal ambition over integrity.

Academic

Adjective

1. characteristic of or similar to the corruptible soldiers in the Praetorian Guard with respect to corruption or political venality
   • a large Praetorian bureaucracy filled with ambitious...and often sycophantic people makes work and makes trouble- Arthur M.Schlesinger Jr.
2. of or relating to a Roman praetor
   • praetorial powers

Synonyms

• Praetorian
• Pretorian
• praetorian
• praetorial
• pretorial