overthrow
An overthrow is when someone or something is successfully challenged and removed from power or control. It's like a big upset.
Imagine a country where one leader has been in charge for years, but their people are unhappy with how they're being treated. Maybe the economy is suffering or there's been corruption. A group of opposition figures might rise up to challenge the leader, trying to bring about change and take power away from them. If they succeed, that would be an overthrow. The term can also refer to a sudden and complete reversal of something, like when a team is winning a game but then loses control and starts losing.
It's worth noting that the word "overthrow" implies force or effort, not just a change in leadership through peaceful means like voting or resignation.
How common is "overthrow"?
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
noun
A removal, especially of a ruler or government, by force or threat of force.
verb
To bring about the downfall of (a government, etc.), especially by force.
Example: I hate the current government, but not enough to want to overthrow them.
Real examples of "overthrow" in context
