B2noun2K

Revolution

UK /["/ˌrevəˈluːʃn/"]/US /["/ˌrevəˈluːʃn/"]/

Definition

an attempt, by a large number of people, to change the government of a country, especially by violent action

In simple words: A big change in how something works, often involving fighting or protest.

Examples

  • The American Revolution was a pivotal event in the history of the United States.
  • Many believed that the industrial revolution changed the way people lived and worked.
  • The revolution in technology has led to significant advancements in communication.
  • The dancer performed a stunning double revolution in mid-air during the routine.
  • Political theorists often discuss the role of a revolution in achieving social change.
  • In physics, a revolution refers to a complete turn around an axis.
  • The cultural revolution in the 1960s inspired many artists and musicians.
  • During the revolution, new ideas about justice and liberty were widely shared.
  • A revolution can also describe a significant change in how something is done or understood.
  • The revolution of the planets around the sun is an essential concept in astronomy.

Usage notes

Use 'revolution' in contexts involving significant social or political change. It's appropriate in both formal writing and casual conversations. Avoid using it for small changes.

Grammar pattern

revolution + object

Memory hint

Think of 'revolve' — like a wheel turning to create big changes.

Collocations

  • successful
  • bloody
  • violent
  • carry out
  • fight
  • foment
  • break out
  • spread
  • overthrow something
  • revolution against
  • the outbreak of the revolution
  • revolution from above
  • revolution from below
  • quiet
  • complete
  • virtual
  • achieve
  • begin
  • bring
  • occur
  • take place
  • go on
  • revolution in
  • complete
  • full
  • complete
  • make
  • through a revolution
  • revolution about
  • revolution around
  • revolutions a minute
  • revolutions per minute

Synonyms

  • uprising
  • insurrection
  • rebellion
  • overhaul
  • transformation

Antonyms

  • stability
  • order
  • continuity

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'evolution' which means gradual change.
  • Using 'revolution' to describe minor updates or improvements.
  • Mistakenly thinking it only refers to political contexts.