subversive of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'subversive of' is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that could prove to be disruptive or go against a set of norms or values. Example sentence: His behavior was deemed subversive of the company's policies.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The charges: Conduct subversive of good order and military discipline, and aiding and abetting desertion.

The New York Times

Such actions, the court found, are "in violation of social duties or subversive of good order".

The New York Times

In fact, Wilde was never really subversive of conventional society; he thrived on it.

The New Yorker

Romeo and Juliet is in some ways the most subversive of all Shakespeare's plays.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Gulf countries are not interested in promoting models that might prove subversive of their family-based political systems".

The New York Times

The statement was "hardly revolutionary," Hunter said, with a grin, "but it was subversive," meaning subversive of the religious right.

The New Yorker

Censorship, the changing or the suppression or prohibition of speech or writing that is deemed subversive of the common good.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Pfefferkorn began a campaign to rid Germany of Jewish writings that were suspected of being subversive of Christianity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Nevertheless, his analysis is far more subversive of nondemocratic forms of government than it appears to be.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But under its opulent surface it is programmatically subversive of the very thing it pretends to be.

The New York Times

Such paradoxes characterise the entire book; and paradox, with its unexpected boomerang, is the most subversive of forms.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "subversive of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what norms, values, or systems are being challenged or undermined. This provides clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the degree to which something is "subversive of" established norms. Accurate assessment enhances credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subversive of" functions as a predicative adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate that something undermines or challenges established norms, values, or systems. Ludwig shows multiple examples where this phrase is used to describe actions or ideas that go against conventional expectations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "subversive of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes something undermining established norms. According to Ludwig, this phrase is primarily used in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. While various alternatives exist, like "undermining of" or "detrimental to", the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. It's crucial to use the phrase accurately, ensuring the context clearly indicates what is being challenged to avoid overstating the impact. This detailed analysis, combined with real-world examples from Ludwig, enhances a writer's ability to effectively use and understand the phrase "subversive of".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undermining of

Focuses on the gradual weakening or destabilization of something.

detrimental to

Highlights the harmful or damaging effects on something.

destructive of

Emphasizes the potential for complete ruin or demolition.

contrary to

Indicates direct opposition or contradiction.

inimical to

Stresses a deep-seated hostility or unfriendliness.

opposed to

Suggests a position of resistance or disagreement.

in violation of

Indicates a breach of rules or regulations.

disruptive to

Focuses on the disturbance or interruption of a process or system.

destabilizing to

Highlights the act of making something unsteady or precarious.

threatening to

Emphasizes the potential danger or harm.

FAQs

How can I use "subversive of" in a sentence?

Use "subversive of" to describe something that undermines or challenges established norms, values, or systems. For example, "The artist's work was seen as subversive of traditional artistic values."

What are some alternatives to using "subversive of"?

Alternatives include "undermining of", "detrimental to", or "destructive of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "subversive to" instead of "subversive of"?

While some prepositions can be used interchangeably, "subversive of" is the standard and more widely accepted form. "Subversive to" might sound awkward to many native English speakers.

What distinguishes "subversive of" from simply being "critical of"?

"Critical of" implies expressing disapproval or pointing out flaws, whereas "subversive of" suggests an intent or effect of undermining the authority or stability of something. "Subversive of" carries a stronger connotation of challenging established norms.