coup

/ku:/

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Definition of "Coup"

The word "coup" can be used in two main ways:

Usage Instructions

• When using "coup" to refer to a government takeover, you often accompany it with "d'état" to specify that it's a political event.
• When referring to a successful action, you can use "coup" on its own.

Examples

1. Political Context:

   • "The military staged a coup last night, removing the president from power."

2. Success Context:

   • "Winning the championship was a real coup for the team, especially after their losing streak."

Advanced Usage

• In political discussions, you might hear phrases like "coup attempt" or "failed coup," which refers to efforts to overthrow a government that did not succeed.
• In business or personal achievements, you might hear "a coup of marketing genius" to describe a very clever marketing strategy.

Word Variants

• Coup d'état: This is the full term for a sudden overthrow of a government.
• Coup de grâce: This is a different term meaning "a final blow or shot given to kill a wounded person." It is not related to government but is often confused with "coup."

Different Meanings

• Besides the political and success meanings, "coup" can sometimes refer to any sudden or surprising event that brings about a significant change, although this is less common.

Synonyms

• For the political meaning:

  • Overthrow
  • Takeover
  • Insurrection (though this has a slightly different meaning)

• For the success meaning:

  • Achievement
  • Triumph
  • Victory

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "coup," but you may encounter phrases like "pull a coup" which informally means to achieve something impressive or surprising.

Summary

"Coup" is a versatile word that can mean a sudden change in government or a remarkable success.

Academic

Noun

1. a brilliant and notable success
2. a sudden and decisive change of government illegally or by force

Synonyms

• coup d'etat
• putsch
• takeover