C1nounformal3K

Coup

UK /["/kuː/","/kuːz/"]/US /["/kuː/","/kuːz/"]/

Definition

a sudden change of government that is illegal and often violent

In simple words: A sudden, illegal takeover of power, usually by a small group.

Examples

  • The military staged a coup to overthrow the government.
  • The failed coup resulted in widespread protests across the country.
  • Winning the championship was a real coup for the small team.
  • Their new product launch turned out to be a marketing coup.
  • The sudden coup led to a dramatic shift in political power.

Usage notes

Use 'coup' in discussions about political movements or revolutions. It is generally formal and may not be appropriate in everyday casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

coup + object (often 'of power' or 'against a government')

Memory hint

Sounds like 'move' — imagine a surprising move for power.

Collocations

  • abortive
  • attempted
  • failed
  • launch
  • mount
  • stage
  • attempt
  • plot
  • leader
  • coup against
  • big
  • great
  • major
  • pull off
  • score

Synonyms

  • overthrow
  • putsch
  • rebellion
  • insurrection
  • revolt

Antonyms

  • stability
  • continuity

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'coup' with 'coop,' which refers to a chicken enclosure.
  • Using 'coup' to describe any type of change in leadership rather than a forced or illegal one.
  • Spellings like 'coupe' which refer to a car model.