Conquest: meaning, definitions and examples

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conquest

[ˈkɒŋ.kwest ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

history

Conquest is the act of taking control of a country or a city by force. It often involves military campaigns, battles, and occupation of the conquered territory.

Synonyms

domination, subjugation, victory.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
conquest	This word is often used to describe the act of taking control over a place or people by military force. It can also be applied metaphorically to indicate overcoming challenges or obstacles. The conquest of new territories expanded the empire's borders. Her conquest of the company’s top position was a remarkable achievement.
victory	Victory is generally used in a positive sense, referring to the act of winning a battle, game, competition, or any struggle. It denotes success and achievement. Their victory in the championship was celebrated by the entire town. Securing a victory in the negotiations was crucial for the company’s future.
domination	Domination implies exerting control or power over someone or something. This word usually carries a negative connotation, as it suggests overpowering or suppressing others. The country’s domination over its neighbors is a cause for international concern. He sought domination in every aspect of her life, leaving her feeling trapped.
subjugation	Subjugation is used to describe the act of bringing someone or something under control, often by force. It carries a strong negative sense, emphasizing oppression and lack of freedom. The subjugation of the local population led to widespread resentment. The subjugation of individual freedoms has always been a contentious issue.

Examples of usage

The conquest of Gaul by Julius Caesar is a well-known historical event.
The Spanish conquistadors led several conquests in the Americas during the Age of Exploration.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

business

Conquest in business refers to acquiring new customers or markets by outperforming competitors or expanding into new territories.

Synonyms

acquisition, expansion, penetration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
conquest	Used to describe the act of taking control over a place or people by military force. It often carries a historical or aggressive connotation. The Spanish Conquest of the Americas had a profound impact on the native populations The conquest of the neighboring kingdom was swift and decisive
acquisition	Commonly used in business or legal settings to describe obtaining an asset, company, or rights, usually through a formal process or purchase. The company's recent acquisition of a smaller competitor has expanded its market share significantly His acquisition of the property was finalized last month
expansion	Used to describe the act of growing, increasing in size, or extending. It can be applied to businesses, empires, and even abstract concepts like knowledge. The company's expansion into new markets has been very successful The expansion of the universe is a concept that fascinates astronomers
penetration	Often used in contexts where entry into a market, region, or system is discussed. It can also refer to the process of breaking through barriers. In some contexts, it can have a negative or aggressive undertone. Market penetration strategies are essential for new businesses to gain customers The penetration of foreign products into the local market has increased competition

Examples of usage

Our company's conquest of the Asian market was a major milestone in our growth strategy.
The aggressive marketing campaign led to the conquest of a significant market share.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

general

To conquer or to achieve victory over someone or something through force or determination.

Synonyms

defeat, overcome, triumph.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
conquest	Used to describe the act of taking control of a country, city, or territory, typically by force. It often has historical or military connotations. The Norman Conquest of England in 1066 changed the course of British history. Alexander the Great's conquests extended from Greece to Egypt and into Persia.
overcome	Used to imply successfully dealing with or gaining control over something difficult, such as an obstacle, a problem, or a weakness. She managed to overcome many obstacles to achieve her dream. He finally overcame his addiction and started living a healthier life.
triumph	Indicates a great victory or achievement. It is often used in a celebratory or positive sense to mark significant success. Their triumph in the competition was celebrated across the country. The discovery of the new vaccine was hailed as a triumph of modern medicine.
defeat	Typically used to denote winning against someone or something in a contest or battle. It has a straightforward competitive connotation. The team suffered a crushing defeat in the final match. He vowed to defeat his opponent in the chess tournament.

Examples of usage

He conquered his fear of heights and climbed the mountain.
She conquered the chess tournament and emerged as the champion.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term has roots in the Latin word 'conquestus', meaning 'to acquire' or 'to gain'.
Throughout history, many empires grew larger through conquests, such as the Roman Empire expanding across Europe.
The concept shaped major historical events, with notable examples like the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.

Literature

Literary works, such as 'The Iliad', explore conquests not only as battles but also as themes of honor and glory.
Shakespeare's plays often delve into the psychological impacts of conquest on both the victor and the vanquished, highlighting moral questions.
Modern novels like 'The Kite Runner' examine personal conquests, relating them to overcoming past traumas and societal expectations.

Psychology

The feeling of achievement from a conquest can boost self-esteem and confidence, motivating individuals in various aspects of life.
Psychological studies show that an individual's desire for conquest may stem from innate competitive instincts that have evolved over time.
The mindset of viewing challenges as conquests can promote a growth-oriented attitude and resilience in facing adversity.

Pop Culture

Video games often feature themes of conquest, where players build empires and seek to dominate opponents for victory.
Movies, such as 'Gladiator', dramatize historical conquests, focusing on the human emotions and philosophies behind battles.
Popular board games like 'Risk' are centered around the idea of conquest, where strategy and planning lead to total control of territories.

Science

In ecology, the conquest of new habitats by invasive species can disrupt local ecosystems, showcasing the darker side of conquest.
The study of human evolution suggests that the conquest of new lands contributed to cultural exchanges and advancements in technology.
Researchers explore how conquest strategies in nature reflect those seen in human societies, like territoriality in various animal species.

Translations

Translations of the word "conquest" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conquista

🇮🇳 विजय

🇩🇪 Eroberung

🇮🇩 penaklukan

🇺🇦 завоювання

🇵🇱 podbój

🇯🇵 征服 (せいふく)

🇫🇷 conquête

🇪🇸 conquista

🇹🇷 fetih

🇰🇷 정복 (정복)

🇸🇦 فتح

🇨🇿 dobytí

🇸🇰 dobytie

🇨🇳 征服 (zhēngfú)

🇸🇮 osvajanje

🇮🇸 landvinning

🇰🇿 жеңіс

🇬🇪 დაპყრობა

🇦🇿 fəth

🇲🇽 conquista

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,895 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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5892 dispose
5893 forcing
5894 hatred
5895 conquest
5896 misery
5897 talents
5898 hybrid
...