Synonyms for

Subversive

Verb / sʌˈbvɜ:sɪv / Another word for subversive — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

tending or intending to overthrow, destroy, or undermine an established or existing system, especially a legally constituted government or a set of beliefs.

Synonyms & similar words

revolutionary seditious subverter revolutionist insurgent revolutionary radical disruptive insurgent dissident seditious treasonous rebellious mutinous iconoclastic anarchistic antiauthoritarian antiestablishment antigovernment antisocial subterranean underground clandestine covert furtive

Synonyms by register

Formal

insidious destabilizing undermining revolutionary

Informal

troublemaking disruptive agitating

Literary

insidious corrosive seditious

Antonyms

loyal obedient supportive constructive loyalist conformist patriotic

Common collocations

  • subversive activities
  • subversive elements
  • subversive literature
  • subversive tactics
  • subversive intent
  • subversive ideas
  • subversive plot

Word family

noun subversion
verb subvert
adjective subversive
adverb subversively

Usage note

Subversive typically describes actions or ideas intended to undermine authority or established systems. It carries a negative connotation, implying a hidden or treacherous attempt to cause downfall.

Example sentences

  1. The protesters were accused of being subversive and trying to overthrow the government.
  2. The artist's work was seen as subversive because it challenged traditional ideas.
  3. The novel was banned for its subversive content.
  4. The spy was accused of engaging in subversive activities.
  5. The group's subversive actions led to their arrest.

Quotes

  • The most subversive people are those who ask questions.
  • Art is a subversive act.
  • To be truly radical is to make hope possible, rather than despair convincing.

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