upheaval
up-HEE-vuhl
/ʌpˈhiːvəl/
A violent or sudden change or disruption to something.
While 'change' can be gradual, 'upheaval' implies a forceful, often messy displacement of the status quo.
The story behind the word. Originally a geological term from the 18th century, it described the process of the earth's crust being pushed upward. It was later adopted by social scientists to describe the 'lifting' and breaking of social structures.
Word relationships
- turmoil: Suggests a state of great disturbance or confusion, often more chaotic and less structural than upheaval.
- disruption: A more neutral term for an interruption in an event or process.
- stability: The state of being stable and resistant to change.
- tranquility: A state of peace and quiet.
Commonly confused with
- revolution: A revolution is a specific type of upheaval aimed at overthrowing a government or system.
Word family
- upheave (verb): to lift or throw up with great force
Collocations
- political upheaval
- social upheaval
- emotional upheaval
- violent upheaval
Example sentences
- "The Industrial Revolution caused a massive social upheaval that moved millions from farms to factories." Describing the impact of the Industrial Revolution.
- "The French Revolution and the Industrial Revolution constituted the greatest upheaval in human history." Historical analysis of the 19th century.
Memory hook
Imagine the ground 'heaving up' during an earthquake; social upheaval feels just as unstable. The ground heaves up.
When not to use
Do not use for minor adjustments; it should be reserved for events that significantly disturb the social or political order.
Fun facts
- The word was first used metaphorically to describe the French Revolution.
- In geology, an upheaval can create entire mountain ranges.
Related words
Explore more words
cataclysm, disruption, disrupt, tectonic, clash, revolutionize
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