Synonyms for

Revolution

Verb / ˌrevʌˈlu:ʃʌn / Another word for revolution — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a forcible overthrow of a government or social order in favor of a new system

Synonyms & similar words

gyration rotation uprising rebellion coup overthrow revolt insurrection mutiny resistance subversion transformation evolution change shift turnover overturn reform innovation modernization restructuring metamorphosis

Synonyms by register

Formal

upheaval insurrection overthrow transformation

Informal

shake-up turnaround big change

Literary

metamorphosis renaissance

Antonyms

stagnation inertia stability conformity status quo order peace

Common collocations

  • social revolution
  • industrial revolution
  • scientific revolution
  • political revolution
  • cultural revolution
  • spark a revolution
  • lead a revolution
  • violent revolution

Word family

noun revolution
verb revolve
adjective revolutionary
adverb revolutionarily

Usage note

While 'revolution' often implies a violent overthrow of government, it can also refer to a fundamental and often rapid change in a system or way of thinking, such as the 'digital revolution'.

Example sentences

  1. The revolution in France changed the country forever.
  2. The American Revolution was fought for independence.
  3. The Industrial Revolution brought many changes to society.
  4. The Cuban Revolution was led by Fidel Castro.
  5. The Russian Revolution led to the creation of the Soviet Union.

Quotes

  • The revolution is not an apple that falls when it is ripe. You have to make it fall. - Che Guevara
  • A revolution is a struggle to the death between the future and the past. - Fidel Castro
  • Every revolution was first a thought in one man's mind. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

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