C1verb2K

Conquer

UK /["/ˈkɒŋkə(r)/","/ˈkɒŋkəz/","/ˈkɒŋkəd/","/ˈkɒŋkərɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈkɑːŋkər/","/ˈkɑːŋkərz/","/ˈkɑːŋkərd/","/ˈkɑːŋkərɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to take control of a country or city and its people by force

In simple words: To gain control over something or someone, often by force.

Examples

  • The Normans conquered England in 1066.
  • In 330 BC Persia was conquered by Alexander the Great.
  • conquered territories/subjects/lands
  • The Roman Empire offered citizenship to its conquered peoples.
  • The world champion conquered yet another challenger last night.
  • The only way to conquer a fear is to face it.
  • Mount Everest was conquered *(= successfully climbed)* in 1953.
  • He will need to conquer his nerves to progress in this competition.
  • The band is now setting out to conquer the world.
  • This is a British film which could conquer the US market.

Usage notes

Use 'conquer' in contexts of overcoming challenges or defeating opponents. It's neutral and suitable for both formal and casual discussions, but avoid using it in contexts where violence is inappropriate.

Grammar pattern

conquer + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'con-ker' — imagine a king conquering a land with a large crown.

Collocations

  • conquer fears
  • conquer a battle
  • conquer challenges
  • conquer territory

Synonyms

  • defeat
  • overcome
  • vanquish
  • subdue
  • master

Antonyms

  • surrender
  • yield
  • submit

Common mistakes

  • 'Conquer' is often confused with 'conqueror' when referring to a person.
  • Learners sometimes use it intransitively without an object (e.g., 'conquer' instead of 'conquer the enemy').