coup
KOO
/kuː/
A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government.
Specifically refers to a 'top-down' seizure, usually by the military or a small group of insiders, rather than a popular revolution.
The story behind the word. Short for 'coup d'état', which literally means 'a blow against the state'. It suggests a single, decisive strike that ends the current regime.
Word relationships
- overthrow: 'Overthrow' is the result; 'coup' is the specific method (sudden seizure).
- takeover: 'Takeover' is more common in business; 'coup' implies illegality and force.
- election: A formal and organized choice by vote of a person for a political office.
- restoration: The act of returning something to its former condition or position.
Commonly confused with
- insurrection: An 'insurrection' is a bottom-up uprising; a 'coup' is a top-down seizure.
Collocations
- military coup
- attempted coup
- bloodless coup
- stage a coup
Idioms & expressions
- coup de grâce
Example sentences
- "The military staged a coup and placed the president under house arrest." Political news.
- "Landing the lead role in the film was a major coup for the young actress." Describing a great achievement (figurative).
Memory hook
A 'coup' is like a 'coop'—the new leaders swoop in and put the old ones in a cage. A sudden blow to the state.
When not to use
Do not use it for a slow transition of power or a legal election.
Fun facts
- In the figurative sense, a 'coup' is a brilliant, unexpected success, like 'pulling off a coup' in a business deal.
Related words
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