subdue
/səbˈdjuː/to bring someone or something under control, often by force
The police managed to subdue the violent protester.
They controlled the aggressive person.
She struggled to subdue her anger.
She tried to control her anger.
Often used in contexts involving force or effort to control emotions, situations, or people.
to reduce the intensity or severity of something
The medication helped subdue the pain.
It reduced the pain.
Can be used for abstract concepts like emotions or physical sensations.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning can vary based on whether it's used for people, emotions, or situations.
⚡Gold Rule
Force vs. Effort
Use 'subdue' when control requires significant effort or force.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'subduen', from Old French 'souduire', from Latin 'subducere' (to lead under, subjugate), from 'sub-' (under) + 'ducere' (to lead).
📝Usage Notes
Can be used both literally (physical control) and figuratively (emotional or situational control).