Word
subversive
Phoneticssub·ver·sive, stress on the second syllable
US/səbˈvɝsɪv/
UK/səbvˈɜːsɪv/
Definition
adj. describing something that tries to destroy or damage an established system, like a government or a set of beliefs. It is often used for art or ideas that challenge the rules.
adj. seeking or intended to undermine the power and authority of an established system or institution. Often used to describe political activities, literature, or art that challenges social norms.
Examples
“The artist is famous for her subversive paintings.”
“The government banned the book because they considered its message to be subversive and dangerous to public order.”
“While the film appears to be a standard romantic comedy, it contains a subversive critique of traditional gender roles that only becomes apparent upon a second viewing.”
Examples
simple
“The artist is famous for her subversive paintings.”
contextual
“The government banned the book because they considered its message to be subversive and dangerous to public order.”
complex
“While the film appears to be a standard romantic comedy, it contains a subversive critique of traditional gender roles that only becomes apparent upon a second viewing.”
Usage
Typically used as an adjective; when used as a noun, it refers to a person who holds such views.
Real-World Examples
“It is a play of some charm that never quite lives up to the subversive promise of its title.” “He also blasted ICAP for allegedly organising a “subversive network” of “international sympathisers” to help Cuba’s government.” Etymology
See subvert and -ive.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/subversive