seek to subvert

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seek to subvert" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing attempts to undermine or overthrow established systems, norms, or authority. Example: "The activists seek to subvert the oppressive regime by promoting alternative narratives and encouraging dissent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

We condemn those, like the sponsors of violence in Macedonia who seek to subvert democracy.

The New York Times

Fortunately, some spaces seek to subvert these stereotypes and to address the proliferation of often incorrect assumptions.

The Guardian

Coming here is a privilege that we refuse to extend to those who seek to subvert our shared values".

The Guardian

When those we elect seek to subvert norms of behavior, we have rights and laws to fall back on.

The New Yorker

Attempts to recast the 20th century's seminal instance of genocide only serve those who seek to subvert the truth of what happened to the Armenians.

The New York Times

"Coming to the UK is a privilege and one that we refuse to extend to those who seek to subvert the shared values of our society.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The secret service under his control, it turns out, sought to subvert neighbouring states.

The Economist

He was formally arrested last summer and charged with seeking to subvert the state.

The New York Times

Bahrain, which regularly accuses Tehran of seeking to subvert its own restive Shia population, has been cool as well.

The Guardian

The Sopranos, on the other hand, takes a seemingly familiar world and seeks to subvert it from within.

The Guardian

"We do not doubt that criminal elements may be involved in seeking to subvert or corrupt some players/officials and that they may even involve organised criminal gangs".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seek to subvert", ensure that the subject's intentions are clear and that there is evidence of deliberate action aimed at undermining the established order.

Common error

Avoid using "seek to subvert" when the actions are merely critical or dissenting, rather than actively aimed at overthrowing or undermining. Differentiate between disagreement and active subversion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seek to subvert" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose or intent. It connects a subject (stated or implied) with the action of undermining or overturning something established. This function is supported by the examples Ludwig provides, showing the phrase used across various contexts to describe intentional efforts to weaken or destabilize.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seek to subvert" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys the intention to undermine or overturn something established. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and provides numerous examples across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While the phrase itself is neutral, the act of subversion often carries negative connotations, influencing the overall tone. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "attempt to undermine" or "aim to destabilize", depending on the desired nuance. When using "seek to subvert", clarity of intent is key to prevent misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attempt to undermine

Focuses on a general effort to weaken without necessarily destroying.

try to overthrow

Implies a more forceful and direct attempt to remove from power.

aim to destabilize

Highlights the intention to disrupt the stability of something.

endeavor to sabotage

Suggests a deliberate act of destruction or obstruction.

work to erode

Describes a gradual weakening or wearing away.

strive to overturn

Emphasizes an effort to reverse a decision or system.

plan to disrupt

Focuses on intending to interrupt or disturb the normal course of events.

aspire to reverse

Highlights the ambition to change something back to a previous state.

maneuver to circumvent

Implies using clever tactics to avoid rules or obstacles.

conspire to undermine

Suggests a secret agreement to weaken something.

FAQs

How can I use "seek to subvert" in a sentence?

Use "seek to subvert" when describing actions that intentionally undermine an established system, norm, or authority. For example: "The activists seek to subvert the oppressive regime by promoting alternative narratives."

What are some alternatives to "seek to subvert"?

You can use alternatives like "attempt to undermine", "try to overthrow", or "aim to destabilize" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "sought to subvert" instead of "seek to subvert"?

Yes, "sought to subvert" is the past tense form of "seek to subvert" and is correct when describing actions that occurred in the past. For example: "The secret service sought to subvert neighboring states."

What is the difference between "seek to subvert" and "serve to subvert"?

"Seek to subvert" implies an active intention or effort to undermine something, while "serve to subvert" suggests that something unintentionally has the effect of undermining something else. The former involves direct intent; the latter is a consequence.