vassal
Example Sentences
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It is more of a vassal, or protectorate, or a colony.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 3, 2026
“In southern India, the threat of being reduced to a vassal state is a serious problem,” said Neelakantan, the political analyst.
From Seattle Times ● May 6, 2024
The sole survivor of a disgraced noble family, Mariko’s past looms over her commitment to her duties as Toranaga’s vassal, a wife and a devout Catholic.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 24, 2024
When asked if Laos is at risk of becoming a vassal state, Mr Menon said "that ship has sailed".
From BBC ● Oct. 8, 2023
Territorial empires are tightly controlled but costly to maintain; hegemonic empires are inexpensive to maintain, because the original local rulers incur the costs of administration, but the loose tie between master and vassal encourages rebellion.
From "1491" by Charles C. Mann
I’ll note that the demon is a more honest and fair negotiator than his vassals, who occasionally cheat and are punished in exactly the way you’re hoping to see.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 19, 2026
The vassals have a duty to give honest advice, and their advice is that this course of action is madness.
From New York Times ● Apr. 9, 2024
“No one has the right to tear the realm apart,” he tells his assembled vassals as he agrees to surrender to the Council.
From New York Times ● Apr. 2, 2024
“But if you read between the lines, that’s what it means—these were vassals, probably of Tikal directly and Teotihuacán indirectly.”
From National Geographic ● Jan. 26, 2024
In mediæval times homage was exacted of all vassals.
From New Word-Analysis by William Swinton
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