Spanish Conversation · Level 129
61 words
Spanish word
derrocar
Pronunciation
IPA/deroˈkaɾ/
Meaning
- verboverthrow
Example
Los rebeldes derrocaron al líder.
The rebels overthrew the leader.
More examples
Si logran derrocar al gobierno, habrá cambios.
If they manage to overthrow the government, there will be changes.
Core concept
Leader pulled down from a podium by a crowd.
Common phrases
derrocar el gobierno
overthrow the government
derrocar al presidente
overthrow the president
Similar words
derribar: A building, structure, or person is knocked down by physical force.
tumbar: An object or person is pushed or tipped over in everyday, informal situations.
destituir: A public official is formally removed from office through legal or administrative procedures.
echar: A person is forced out of a place or position, often in informal or everyday contexts.
Definition in Spanish
Provocar la pérdida del cargo o la autoridad de alguien en el poder, mediante un golpe, una insurrección o una presión organizada que lo deja sin poder.
Word origin
From a Romance formation of de- 'remove' plus a verb meaning 'knock down', originally literal 'strike down' and later used for toppling people from office.
Usage tips
- Derrocar usually denotes forcible or coup-like removal of a leader and is not used for peaceful resignations or ordinary electoral defeats, where destituir or perder el cargo are more appropriate.