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Meaning & use

subversively

adverb·Advanced

Last updated

UK/səbˈvɜːsɪvli/
US/səbˈvɜːrsɪvli/

Meanings

  1. adverb

    In a way that tries to weaken or overthrow an established system, government, or authority.

    Grammar: Modifies a verb: act subversively, work subversively.

    Patterns

    • act subversively
    • behave subversively
    • work subversively

    The group acted subversively, spreading ideas that challenged the government.

    She wrote subversively, hiding criticism inside a children's story.

    They operated subversively for years before anyone noticed.

  2. adverb

    In a way that undermines or challenges accepted beliefs or institutions, often subtly.

    Grammar: Often used about art, humor, or writing that questions norms.

    Patterns

    • subversively funny
    • subversively clever

    The play was subversively funny, making the audience laugh at serious topics.

    His novel is subversively critical of modern education.

Common combinations

act subversively
The rebels acted subversively by spreading rumors.
work subversively
She worked subversively within the company to change its policies.
subversively undermine
They subversively undermined the manager's authority.
subversively funny
His comedy is subversively funny, poking fun at power.

Synonyms and how they differ

seditiously
More legal and specific to encouraging rebellion against a government; 'subversively' is broader.
disruptively
Focuses on causing disorder; 'subversively' focuses on weakening authority or systems.
secretly
Means in secret; 'subversively' can be secret but emphasizes the aim to undermine.

Opposites

loyallyobediently

Word family

subversive adjective
Intended to weaken or overthrow an established system.
subvert verb
To undermine or overthrow something, especially an authority.
subversion noun
The act of trying to weaken or overthrow a system.

Commonly confused: subversively or subversive? subversively or divisively?

subversively vs subversive

This is the adjective; 'subversively' is the adverb. Use 'subversively' to describe how an action is done.

subversively vs divisively

Means causing disagreement; 'subversively' means undermining authority.

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