Revolution: meaning, definitions and examples

A fundamental change in political power or organizational structures, typically done by the population. It often implies a significant and lasting transformation.

• The American Revolution led to the independence of the United States
• The Industrial Revolution transformed how goods were produced

A local or regional revolt against a governing authority. It’s usually smaller in scale compared to a revolution and can sometimes be relatively short-term.

• The local uprising was quelled within a few days
• There was an uprising in the village against the new policies

An act of violent or open resistance to an established government or ruler, often by a large number of people. It's used when people are collectively against authority.

• The rebellion against the king was marked by numerous skirmishes
• The peasants' rebellion was sparked by unfair taxes and treatment

A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government, usually led by a small group of people such as military officers or political leaders. Often has a negative connotation.

• The military coup resulted in the overthrow of the elected government
• The officials planned the coup to gain control quickly

An active revolt or uprising against an authority or government, often involving groups of people rising up to challenge the existing system. It implies violent action and conflict.

• The insurrection was swiftly put down by the government forces
• The rebels planned an insurrection to try and seize control of the city

Use in situations involving a complete and radical change in society, government, or a system. Often implies a significant and sudden shift.

• The French Revolution changed the course of history.
• Technological revolution has altered how we live and work.

Pertains to the introduction of new ideas, methods, or products, focusing on originality and improvement.

• The company is known for its innovation in artificial intelligence.
• Innovation is key to staying competitive in the market.

Applicable when referring to a significant and dramatic discovery or development in a field, often resulting in substantial progress.

• The scientists made a breakthrough in cancer research.
• Her innovative idea led to a major breakthrough in the project.

Describes a significant change in form, appearance, or nature, often implying improvement or a better state.

• The transformation of the city skyline is remarkable.
• Personal transformation requires inner work and dedication.

Best used to describe a gradual process of development or change over time, often without sudden or radical shifts.

• The evolution of technology has been astonishing.
• Cultural evolution takes place over centuries.

Typically used to describe a major, often dramatic, change or overthrow in social, political, or technological systems.

• The French Revolution dramatically changed the structure of French society.
• The Industrial Revolution introduced new machinery and technology to the world.

Refers to the spinning motion of an object around its axis. This term is commonly used in astronomy, mechanics, and daily contexts.

• The Earth completes one rotation every 24 hours.
• The rotation of the turbine generates electricity.

Describes the curved path of a celestial object or spacecraft around a star, planet, or moon, especially a periodic elliptical revolution.

• The satellite was placed into orbit around the Earth.
• The planet Mars has two small moons in its orbit.

Refers to the act of traveling all the way around something, especially the Earth or another large object, usually by sea or air.

• Ferdinand Magellan is famous for the first circumnavigation of the Earth.
• The team's goal was the circumnavigation of the globe in a solar-powered aircraft.