Uprising: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this term to refer to a general act of resistance or rebellion, often without specifying the exact nature of the unrest. It can describe a broad range of movements, from organized efforts to spontaneous actions.

• The country experienced a sudden uprising when the new laws were imposed.
• There was an uprising in the city as people protested against the corrupt government.

This term fits when describing a revolt against authority, often extended over a longer period and reasonably organized. It typically involves a group seeking to express dissatisfaction and evoke change.

• The rebellion lasted for two years before a truce was declared.
• The peasants' rebellion disrupted the king's rule for months.

This word is appropriate for describing a spontaneous or quickly organized effort to resist authority. It usually refers to acts of defiance that occur suddenly and are more likely localized.

• The revolt started in the northern provinces and quickly spread.
• After years of oppression, the villagers finally decided to revolt.

Choose this word for situations involving a violent attempt to overthrow a government or authority. It implies a well-planned and concerted effort, often with the aim of significant political change.

• The insurrection was crushed by the military within hours.
• Several leaders were arrested following the failed insurrection.

An uprising is generally used to describe a rebellion or revolt against an authority, often involving large groups of people. This term is commonly associated with movements for political change or civil rights.

• The country experienced an uprising that ultimately led to significant political reforms.
• The government struggled to manage the large-scale uprising in the capital.

Upheaval is a broader term that denotes a significant disruption or change, often in a societal or political context. It implies a period of chaos and can also refer to non-violent changes.

• The cultural revolution caused major social upheaval throughout the country.
• Economic upheaval led to widespread unemployment and poverty.

Mutiny is used to describe a rebellion against authority, typically by soldiers or sailors against their officers. It is often associated with the military or naval contexts and implies a breach of discipline.

• The sailors were charged with mutiny after they refused to follow orders.
• During the mission, a mutiny broke out among the troops, challenging their commander.

A coup, short for coup d'état, refers to a sudden, decisive, and often illegal overthrow of a government, typically by a small group within the state establishment, such as the military. The term carries a negative connotation due to its association with violence and lack of democratic processes.

• The military staged a coup to seize control of the government.
• The coup resulted in the installation of a new authoritarian regime.