Subvert
hardsub-VERT
verb
Definition
To undermine the power and authority of an established system or institution
Examples
“The group sought to subvert the government through propaganda.”
“His actions were designed to subvert the democratic process.”
Categories
GRE Tip
Subvert is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "undermine" or "sabotage" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "support".
Related GRE Words
vitiate
To spoil or impair the quality or efficiency of; to corrupt
undermine
To weaken or damage something, especially gradually or insidiously
sabotage
To deliberately destroy, damage, or obstruct something
iconoclast
A person who attacks or criticizes cherished beliefs or institutions
sap
(verb) To gradually weaken or destroy; to drain of energy
ubiquitous
Present, appearing, or found everywhere
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