# subvert

/səbˈvɝt/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/subvert
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

to weaken or destroy something that is meant to be strong or stable. You use this when someone tries to change a system or a person's beliefs in a sneaky way.

For teachers: to undermine or weaken the foundations of an institution, system, or belief. Often implies a deliberate, systematic effort to destabilize or overthrow a structure.

## Examples

- The new rules seem to subvert the old ones.
- The government's new policy was accused of subverting the independence of the local judiciary.
- By introducing subtle biases into the algorithm, the researchers demonstrated how easily a system designed for fairness could be subverted by those with technical expertise.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.