IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary

censorship

noun/ˈsensəʃɪp/Band 8

Last updated 21 July 2026

In short

“censorship” is a Band 8 noun that means the suppression or control of information considered unacceptable. Below you'll find its pronunciation, natural example sentences, synonyms and antonyms, and the collocations that help you use it accurately in the IELTS Speaking test.

Meaning

The suppression or control of information considered unacceptable.

Example sentences

Natural, spoken examples at the level an examiner rewards.

  • The regime imposed strict censorship on the press.
  • Online censorship is a growing concern.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms

suppressionrestrictioncontrol

Antonyms

freedom of speechopenness

Collocations & common phrases

Word partners that make your usage sound natural — the difference between knowing a word and using it well.

Collocations

media censorshipstrict censorshipimpose censorshipinternet censorship

Common phrases

freedom from censorship

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Frequently asked questions

What does “censorship” mean?
The suppression or control of information considered unacceptable.
How do you use “censorship” in a sentence?
For example: “The regime imposed strict censorship on the press.”
What are some synonyms for “censorship”?
Synonyms include suppression, restriction, control.
Is “censorship” good vocabulary for IELTS Speaking?
Yes. It is Band 8 vocabulary, and collocations such as media censorship, strict censorship, impose censorship help you use it naturally. Reaching for precise, less common words like this is exactly what lifts your Lexical Resource score.

Next step

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