I am trying to remember a word/phrase that is often used to describe backwards and heavy handed laws
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Track title: Hypnotic Puzzle3
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Chapters
00:00 I Am Trying To Remember A Word/Phrase That Is Often Used To Describe Backwards And Heavy Handed Laws
00:39 Answer 1 Score 23
01:02 Answer 2 Score 5
01:18 Accepted Answer Score 24
01:56 Answer 4 Score 5
02:16 Thank you
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Full question
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Tags
#terminology #synonyms #descriptivegrammar
#avk47
ACCEPTED ANSWER
Score 24
Draconian (pertaining to Draco)
The laws [Draco] laid down were the first written constitution of Athens. So that no one would be unaware of them, they were posted on wooden tablets... thus made known to all literate citizens. Wikipedia
The laws were particularly harsh. The punishment for even minor offenses, e.g. "stealing a cabbage", was death.
One thing we must do is rethink the draconian collection policies that leave vulnerable students with nowhere to turn. - NYT
ANSWER 2
Score 23
draconian:
very strict and cruel[Longman]
So named for the Greek lawgiver Draco:
Athenian lawgiver whose harsh legal code punished both trivial and serious crimes in Athens with death—hence the continued use of the word draconian to describe repressive legal measures.
[Britannica]
ANSWER 3
Score 5
While draconian would have been my 1st choice, Puritanical also comes to mind
Puritanical- very strict in moral or religious matters, often excessively so; rigidly austere
ANSWER 4
Score 5
Maybe not a perfect fit, but "arcane" comes to mind. This is often used to describe very old laws that are never enforced, but remain on the books, and make no sense in current society.
arcane (adj) known or understood by very few; mysterious; secret; obscure; esoteric