subvert
To undermine or destabilize authority or an established system
Examples
In a meeting
“These practices could subvert the integrity of our governance processes.”
Over coffee
“They're trying to subvert the whole democratic process.”
Why this word
undermine
subvert implies deliberately overturning or corrupting from within, while undermine suggests gradual weakening
disrupt
subvert means to systematically overthrow or corrupt, while disrupt just means to interrupt or disturb
oppose
subvert involves covert destruction of a system, while oppose is overt disagreement
Usage tip
Use when describing deliberate efforts to weaken or overthrow systems, rules, or authority. Carries negative connotation.
Etymology
Latin 'subvertere' (overturn) from 'sub-' (from below) + 'vertere' (turn) — to turn from below
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Related words
implement
To put a plan, decision, or agreement into action.
proceed
To continue with a course of action
eliminate
To completely remove or get rid of something.
initiate
To cause a process or action to begin.
renew
To extend or restore something for an additional period
execute
To carry out or accomplish a plan