Reading Theme:
Revolution: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：radical change (revolution)
revolution
/ˌrev.əˈluː.ʃən/
n.
A complete and dramatic change in how things are done or how people think.
radical change
➕
/ˈræd.ɪ.kəl tʃeɪndʒ/
n.
A fundamental and transformative shift in methods, systems, or ideas.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'revolutio' (a turning around), from 'revolvere' (to roll back, revolve).
💡 Mnemonic
Think of a REVOLVING door making a complete turn, symbolizing a total change or cycle.
📖 Example
The invention of the smartphone caused a revolution in how we communicate, work, and access information every day.
The creation of the smartphone brought about a radical change in our daily communication, work, and information access.
🔗 Collocations
spark a revolution – to cause or initiate a major change
undergo a revolution – to experience a complete transformation
digital revolution – the profound change brought by computers and the internet
🔄 Synonyms
transformation (n.) – A marked change in form, nature, or appearance.
upheaval (n.) – A violent or sudden change or disruption.
paradigm shift (n.) – A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
🚫 Antonyms
stagnation (n.) – A state of little or no change, growth, or development.
continuity (n.) – The unbroken and consistent existence or operation of something over time.
🌱 Derivatives
revolutionary (adj.) – Involving or causing a complete or dramatic change.
revolutionize (v.) – To change something radically or fundamentally.
📖 Cultural Story
The word originates from astronomy, describing celestial bodies revolving. Its political meaning emerged during the Glorious Revolution (1688), signifying a return to a previous state. It later evolved to mean a complete overthrow, influenced by the American and French Revolutions.
Meaning 2：violent uprising (revolution)
revolution
/ˌrev.əˈluː.ʃən/
n.
When people use force to overthrow a government or a social system and create a new one.
violent uprising
➕
/ˈvaɪə.lənt ˈʌpˌraɪ.zɪŋ/
n.
The overthrow of a government or social order by force, typically followed by the establishment of a new system.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Studying history helps us understand the causes and effects of the Industrial Revolution and the American Revolution.
Learning history aids our comprehension of the reasons and consequences of the Industrial transformation and the American violent uprising.
🔗 Collocations
lead a revolution – to be the main person directing a rebellion
crush a revolution – to use force to stop a rebellion
bloodless revolution – an overthrow of power achieved without widespread violence
🔄 Synonyms
rebellion (n.) – An act of armed resistance to an established government or ruler.
insurrection (n.) – A violent uprising against an authority or government.
overthrow (n.) – The removal from power of a leader or government, especially by force.
🚫 Antonyms
submission (n.) – The action of accepting or yielding to a superior force or authority.
allegiance (n.) – Loyalty or commitment to a ruler, country, or group.
🌱 Derivatives
revolutionary (n.) – A person who works for or engages in political revolution.
counter-revolution (n.) – A revolution aiming to reverse the effects of a previous one.
Wordbook
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