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Subversion: meaning, definitions and examples

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subversion

 

[səbˈvərʒ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

software development

Subversion is a version control system used to maintain current and historical versions of files such as source code, web pages, and documentation. It allows multiple developers to work on the same project simultaneously without conflicts.

Synonyms

SVN.

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Word Description / Examples
subversion

In software development, used to refer to 'Apache Subversion' (also known as SVN), which is a version control system. This is technical jargon mostly familiar within the field of software engineering.

  • The development team decided to use Subversion to manage their codebase.
  • Subversion helps developers track changes and manage different versions of their projects.
SVN

An abbreviation for 'Apache Subversion', commonly used among software developers to refer to this version control system. It's technical jargon specific to the field.

  • You need to commit your changes to the SVN repository.
  • The team uses SVN for code versioning and collaboration.

Examples of usage

  • Many software development teams use Subversion to manage their codebase efficiently.
  • Subversion helps track changes made to files over time.
  • Version control systems like Subversion are essential for collaborative coding projects.
Context #2 | Noun

politics

Subversion refers to actions aimed at overthrowing or undermining an established government or authority. It often involves secret or illegal activities to achieve political change.

Synonyms

sabotage, treason.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
subversion

Typically used when discussing the act of trying to undermine the authority or stability of an institution, such as a government or organization. Often involves a focus on covert actions.

  • The government accused the activist of subversion due to their efforts to promote civil unrest
  • The novel explores themes of subversion within a corrupt system
sabotage

Used when talking about deliberate actions taken to destroy, damage, or obstruct something, usually in a work or operational context. Often implies direct, sometimes physical, intervention.

  • The workers were accused of sabotage after machinery was found damaged
  • She planned to sabotage the project's progress by withholding crucial information
treason

Refers specifically to the act of betraying one’s country or sovereign, typically by aiding an enemy or attempting to overthrow the government. Legally defined and carries heavy penalties.

  • He was charged with treason for providing classified information to a foreign power
  • The spy was convicted of treason after evidence of their betrayal came to light

Examples of usage

  • The organization was accused of engaging in subversion against the ruling regime.
  • Subversion is considered a serious crime in many countries.
  • Government agencies closely monitor potential subversive activities.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'subvertere', which means 'to overturn' or 'to destroy'.
  • It first appeared in English during the late 15th century, highlighting its historical roots in rebellion.
  • The prefix 'sub-' implies 'under', while 'version' relates to turning, indicating a hidden change.

Politics

  • Throughout history, many revolutions were considered acts of subversion against oppressive regimes.
  • It is often associated with efforts to undermine authority or institutional power, as seen in various social movements.
  • In some cases, governments label dissenting opinions as subversive, which can lead to suppression of free speech.

Pop Culture

  • Subversion plays a huge role in many movies and books, highlighting characters who challenge the status quo.
  • Popular songs often use subversive themes to critique societal norms, resonating with those who feel marginalized.
  • The punk rock movement is known for its subversive music and fashion, challenging political and social norms of the time.

Literature

  • Many literary works, such as George Orwell's '1984', explore themes of subversion against totalitarian regimes.
  • Writers often use subversion in character development, showcasing internal conflicts against societal expectations.
  • Books with unreliable narrators frequently subvert reader expectations, leading to surprising plot twists.

Psychology

  • Subversion can be tied to the psychological concept of cognitive dissonance, where conflicting values create a desire to change.
  • It often manifests as a coping mechanism for individuals feeling oppressed or marginalized in society.
  • Understanding subversion aids in analyzing how individuals or groups respond to authority and conformity.

Translations

Translations of the word "subversion" in other languages:

🇵🇹 subversão

🇮🇳 विद्रोह

🇩🇪 Untergrabung

🇮🇩 subversi

🇺🇦 підрив

🇵🇱 sabotaż

🇯🇵 転覆

🇫🇷 subversion

🇪🇸 subversión

🇹🇷 yıkım

🇰🇷 전복

🇸🇦 تخريب

🇨🇿 podvracení

🇸🇰 podvratná činnosť

🇨🇳 颠覆

🇸🇮 subverzija

🇮🇸 undirrótarstarfsemi

🇰🇿 құлату

🇬🇪 დანგრევა

🇦🇿 altqazmaq

🇲🇽 subversión

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,842, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.