Definition of Overthrow
Quick Meaning of Overthrow
To remove a leader or government from power, usually by force or revolution. Can also mean to knock something over.
Detailed Definition of Overthrow
To remove a ruler or government from power, typically by force; to cause something to fall or collapse.
How to Pronounce Overthrow
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the first syllable when used as a noun (OVer-throw). As a verb, it's often pronounced with stress on the third syllable (oh-ver-THROW). Pay attention to context.
Watch out: Learners often mispronounce the stress pattern. For the verb: oh-ver-THROW. Don't stress the first syllable when using the verb form.
Origin and Etymology of Overthrow
From Old English 'over' (across, above) + 'throw' (to hurl). Originally meant 'to knock down' physically. Extended to political sense by 16th century for removing rulers from power.
How to Use Overthrow in a Sentence
Each example shows “overthrow” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The revolution aimed to overthrow the authoritarian regime.”
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“Historical events show how popular uprisings can overthrow powerful governments.”
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“The insurgent forces launched a campaign to overthrow the dictatorship.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Overthrow
Common Synonyms for Overthrow
Smart Synonyms for Overthrow — When to Use Each
- topple
- Slightly less formal; implies sudden collapse
- depose
- More formal legal term; implies removal by official
- unseat
- Political term; means to remove from power
Common Collocations with Overthrow
These phrases pair with “overthrow” in everyday English:
- overthrow a government
- overthrow a regime
- overthrow a ruler
- overthrow a dictatorship
- attempt to overthrow
Common Mistakes When Using Overthrow
Even fluent speakers slip up with “overthrow”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: They overthrown the dictator last year.
- ✓ Correct: They overthrew the dictator last year.
- Why: Past simple of irregular verb 'overthrow' is 'overthrew', not 'overthrown'. Use 'overthrown' only for past participle.
- ✗ Wrong: The government was overthrew by the rebels.
- ✓ Correct: The government was overthrown by the rebels.
- Why: In passive voice, use the past participle 'overthrown', not 'overthrew'.
- ✗ Wrong: They planned to overthrow for the president.
- ✓ Correct: They planned to overthrow the president.
- Why: Overthrow is a transitive verb; it takes a direct object. Don't use 'for'.
Other Forms of Overthrow
Frequently Asked Questions About Overthrow
What is the meaning of "Overthrow"?
To remove a leader or government from power, usually by force or revolution. Can also mean to knock something over.
How do you pronounce "Overthrow"?
The IPA is /ˌoʊvərˈθroʊ/. Stress the first syllable when used as a noun (OVer-throw). As a verb, it's often pronounced with stress on the third syllable (oh-ver-THROW). Pay attention to context.
What part of speech is "Overthrow"?
"Overthrow" is a verb at C1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Overthrow"?
Common synonyms include remove, topple, unseat.
How do you use "Overthrow" in a sentence?
For example: "The revolution aimed to overthrow the authoritarian regime."