What does “usurp” mean?
- 1
verbto take power or a position from someone without the right to do so
The general usurped the throne in a bloody coup.
- 2
verbto take over the place or role of something else
Streaming has usurped television as the main source of entertainment.
Usurp at a glance
- Part of speech
- verb
- CEFR level
- C2 (proficient)
- Pronunciation
- /juˈsɝp/ · yoo-SURP
How to use “usurp” correctly
Always suggests that the power was taken wrongly or illegally.
Common phrases with “usurp”
- usurp power
- usurp the throne
- usurp sb’s authority
Synonyms, opposites and related words
Synonyms (similar meaning)
- seize
- take over
- supplant
Word family
- usurper
- usurpation
“usurp” is on these word lists
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