overthrow (B1)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˌoʊvərˈθroʊ/

Definition

To remove a leader or government from power by force.

Examples

• The army attempted to overthrow the government in a swift coup.

• Many citizens supported the movement to overthrow the corrupt regime.

• History is filled with examples of leaders being overthrown by their people.

How to Use overthrow

overthrow a government (collocation)

To remove a government from power by force. — "The coup aimed to overthrow the government."

overthrow a leader (collocation)

To remove a leader from power by force. — "The people rose up to overthrow their cruel leader."

overthrow a regime (collocation)

To remove a system of rule by force. — "It was a long and bloody fight to overthrow the military regime."

Synonyms of overthrow

Words with a similar meaning to overthrow:

• depose
• dethrone
• oust
• subvert

Antonyms of overthrow

Words with the opposite meaning to overthrow:

• support
• uphold

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