overthrow the system

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overthrow the system" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing political change, social movements, or critiques of established structures. Example: "The activists aimed to overthrow the system that perpetuated inequality and injustice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

We're trying to overthrow the system".

The New York Times - Tech

Koch and Lindsay were not men looking to overthrow the system.

The New Yorker

"The reformist section of the community is always waiting for an opportunity to overthrow the system," he said.

Independent

"With these results they're not powerful enough to overthrow the system, but they're powerful enough to change the system.

The Guardian

"Look, kids: you're not going to fight the Jews and overthrow the system with random terrorist attacks," he added.

The Washington Post

"Our political system is weak, the terrorists and former regime members are sparing no effort to overthrow the system, and neighboring countries have their own ambitions," Mr. Adeeb said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

One basic question that has run through the Democratic primary content, between Clinton and Sanders, and now through the general-election season, is whether young voters want to overthrow the systems of power in this country or join them.

The New Yorker

"From beginning to end, May '68 was a social movement, with the aim of overthrowing the system.

The Guardian

It's about rocking the boat (or "rocking the vote"), overthrowing the system, sticking it to the man, burning it all down.

The Washington Post

It's a way for workers to own "the means of production" without overthrowing the system – and without asking a gridlocked Congress to create a jobs program.

The Guardian - Opinion

Therefore, the opposite of Justice Roberts's argument is true: far from overthrowing the system, DNA testing would affirm it, whereas to refuse to examine pertinent DNA evidence would amount to a miscarriage of justice.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "overthrow the system", ensure the context clearly defines which system is being challenged or replaced. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "overthrow the system" in situations where a less forceful term like "reform" or "improve" would be more appropriate. Overusing it can diminish its impact and make your writing sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

Overthrow the system" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a sentence. It describes an action aimed at dismantling or replacing an existing power structure. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "overthrow the system" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes the act of dismantling or replacing an existing power structure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is most commonly found in News & Media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for a wide range of discussions about social and political change. While widely accepted, it's important to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring the context warrants such a strong term. Alternatives like "dismantle the system" or "challenge the status quo" may be more appropriate in certain situations. It's worth noting that Ludwig flags this phrase as usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dismantle the system

Focuses on the act of taking apart a system, suggesting a more methodical or complete destruction.

topple the establishment

Emphasizes the act of causing something to fall from power, often suddenly.

subvert the existing order

Highlights the undermining of the current structure, often through subtle or indirect means.

challenge the status quo

Implies a questioning or contesting of the current state of affairs, rather than necessarily overturning it.

revolutionize the structure

Suggests a complete and fundamental change in the way something is organized.

transform the framework

Focuses on altering the underlying principles and rules of a system.

disrupt the norm

Emphasizes the act of interrupting or disturbing the normal course of events or established patterns.

rebel against authority

Highlights the act of resisting or fighting against those in power.

undermine the foundation

Focuses on weakening the basis or support of a system.

change the rules of the game

Implies altering the established regulations or principles that govern a particular activity or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "overthrow the system" in a sentence?

You can use "overthrow the system" to describe efforts to radically change or dismantle an established power structure. For example, "The activists aimed to "overthrow the system" that perpetuated inequality."

What are some alternatives to "overthrow the system"?

Alternatives include "dismantle the system", "challenge the status quo", or "revolutionize the structure" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "overthrow the system" too strong of a phrase for moderate changes?

Yes, "overthrow the system" implies a complete and radical change. For more moderate adjustments, consider using phrases like "reform the system" or "improve the system".

What's the difference between "overthrow the system" and "challenge the system"?

"Overthrow the system" suggests a successful or intended complete replacement of the existing structure. "Challenge the system" implies questioning or resisting it, without necessarily aiming to replace it entirely.