monarchy

Definitions

mono- (one) + -arch (Greek arkhein, 'to rule') + -y (state) = rule by one. The first 'n' of mono- merges into the word, but the meaning is clean: a single ruler at the top. Compare oligarchy (rule by a few) and anarchy (no ruler).

Why It Means This

monarchy is the clearest window into how -archy works. Put a quantity in front and you name a system of rule by that many: mono- (one) → monarchy, olig- (few) → oligarchy, an- (none) → anarchy. The prefix counts the rulers; arch supplies the ruling; -y names the system. Memorize this trio and the whole family unlocks.

Common Collocations

• 1.absolute monarchy专制君主制
• 2.constitutional monarchy立宪君主制
• 3.British monarchy英国君主制
• 4.abolish the monarchy废除君主制

Example Sentences

• 1.

  Britain is a constitutional monarchy with a largely ceremonial king.

• 2.

  The revolution ended centuries of absolute monarchy.

• 3.

  Several European monarchies still survive today.

Easily Confused

monarchy vs monarch — monarchy (with -y) is the system or the country; monarch (no -y) is the person. 'Britain is a monarchy' (system); 'the British monarch' (the king or queen). The -archy ending always names a system; the bare -arch names the ruler.