Subvert: meaning, definitions and examples
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subvert
[ səbˈvəːt ]
politics
To subvert means to undermine the power and authority of an established system, government, or institution. It involves seeking to weaken or overthrow the existing order through covert or overt means.
Synonyms
destabilize, sabotage, undermine
Examples of usage
- Foreign intelligence agencies often attempt to subvert governments by funding opposition groups.
- The group plotted to subvert the election process by spreading disinformation.
- Her goal was to subvert the traditional hierarchy and create a more egalitarian society.
literature
In literature, to subvert means to challenge or overturn traditional assumptions, norms, or conventions. It involves questioning established beliefs and exploring alternative perspectives.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The author used satire to subvert the reader's expectations about societal norms.
- The novel subverts the typical hero's journey by portraying the protagonist as flawed and morally ambiguous.
Translations
Translations of the word "subvert" in other languages:
🇵🇹 subverter
🇮🇳 उलटना
🇩🇪 untergraben
🇮🇩 merusak
🇺🇦 підривати
🇵🇱 podkopywać
🇯🇵 覆す
🇫🇷 subvertir
🇪🇸 subvertir
🇹🇷 altüst etmek
🇰🇷 전복시키다
🇸🇦 تخريب
🇨🇿 podkopávat
🇸🇰 podkopávať
🇨🇳 颠覆
🇸🇮 podrivati
🇮🇸 grafa undan
🇰🇿 бүлдіру
🇬🇪 დამხობა
🇦🇿 altını qazmaq
🇲🇽 subvertir
Word origin
The word 'subvert' has its origins in Latin, where 'subvertere' means 'to turn from below.' It entered the English language in the late 14th century with the meaning 'to overthrow or destroy completely.' Over time, its usage expanded to include the undermining or destabilizing of established systems or beliefs. The concept of subversion has been a recurring theme in politics, literature, and social movements, reflecting a desire to challenge authority and provoke change.