One-word substitution (forms of government): Select the term that denotes a system of government run by nobles or a hereditary ruling elite. Context: Contrast with democracy (rule by the people), autocracy (rule by one), and bureaucracy (rule by officials). Instruction: Choose the most accurate single-word substitute.
Verbal Ability
One Word Substitutes
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
Answer
Correct Answer: Aristocracy
Explanation
Given data
- Sought meaning: government by nobles.
- Options: Aristocracy, Democracy, Autocracy, Bureaucracy (reordered above).
Concept / ApproachAn aristocracy is rule by a privileged nobility or elite class, historically based on birth/lineage.
Elimination reasoningAristocracy — rule of nobles; correct. ✅Democracy — rule by the people, usually via elected representatives. ❌Autocracy — absolute rule by one person. ❌Bureaucracy — administration by state officials; not necessarily nobles. ❌
ExampleClassical city-states sometimes evolved into aristocracies dominated by noble families.
Final AnswerAristocracy