From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishdraconiandra‧co‧ni‧an /drəˈkəʊniən $ -ˈkoʊ-/ adjective CRUELvery strict and crueldraconian measures/controls/penalties etc draconian measures to control population growth
Examples from the Corpus
draconian• The measure is not as draconian as it sounds.• A possible alternative to the draconian consequences of decertification is extending the probationary waiver another year, officials say.• It is an interesting speculation whether the reintroduction of such draconian legislation might reduce more recent economic problems.• The former, which is more draconian, may reflect the longer term perceived treatment needs of the men.• No doubt there are scenarios where such draconian measures are justified.• Draconian measures have been implemented to control population growth.• The argument of all crackdown law is that it applies special, draconian measures to tackle some heinous crime.• The government has imposed draconian penalties for anyone found in possession of illegal drugs.draconian measures/controls/penalties etc• No doubt there are scenarios where such draconian measures are justified.• Becasue of these draconian measures, Park was increasingly cut off from normal human contacts.• To some, this situation cries out for draconian measures to inject more competition.• At no time, however, did they use such draconian measures to stifle dissent.• The argument of all crackdown law is that it applies special, draconian measures to tackle some heinous crime.Origin draconian (1800-1900) Greek Drakon “Draco”, ancient Greek judge who had criminals killed for very small crimes 