Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Draconian
adjective
/ druh-KOH-nee-un /
Medium
Meaning
Excessively harsh, severe, or rigorous, especially of laws, rules, or their enforcement.
Origin / Etymology
Named after Draco, the ancient Athenian lawmaker (circa 621 BCE) whose legal code prescribed death as punishment for almost every offence
Synonyms
Harsh
Stringent
Oppressive
Antonyms
Lenient
Humane
Moderate
Example Sentence
"The Supreme Court, while examining the draconian sedition law under Section 124A IPC, directed that no new FIRs be registered under it until Parliament reviews the provision."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Use in GS2 Polity and Governance answers when critiquing laws like sedition, UAPA, or AFSPA for disproportionate restrictions on civil liberties. Effective in GS4 Ethics when discussing the balance between security and individual rights.
Relevant Subjects