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subversively

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /səbˈvɜːrsɪvli/

KK: /səbˈvɜːrsɪvli/

adverb
Definition

In a way that seeks to undermine or overthrow an established system or authority.


Example

The group acted subversively to challenge the government's policies.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how he subversively challenged the rules during the game?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was pretty clever!
Sloth A
I love when players think outside the box like that.
Sloth B
It definitely adds excitement to the competition.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
insidiously
deviously
covertly
Antonyms
openly
honestly
blatantly
Root Explanation

Subversively → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "vertere" (meaning to turn). The word describes actions that turn something from underneath, often in a way that undermines authority or established order.

Memory Tip

Think of actions that 'turn' ('vertere') things 'under' ('sub-') — that's why subversively means acting in a way that undermines or challenges authority.

Visually Confused Words
unsubversive
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