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Overturn - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Overturn means to turn something upside down or reverse a decision, ruling, or situation. It can describe physically flipping an object or legally nullifying a previous judgment.

overturn

/ˌoʊvɚˈtɝn/ /ˌəʊvəˈtɜːn/

Definition:

To turn something upside down or reverse a decision, ruling, or situation.

Synonyms:

Overthrow, reverse, upend, capsize

Part of Speech:

Verb, noun

Antonyms:

Uphold, maintain

Common Collocations:

Overturn a decision, overturn a ruling, overturn a verdict

Derivatives:

Overturning, overturned

Usage Tips:

Use "overturn" for legal decisions or physical objects flipped upside down; avoid for minor changes.

Common Phrases:

Overturn the tables, overturn the odds, overturn the apple cart

Etymology:

From Old English "overturnian," meaning to overthrow or destroy; combines "over" + "turn."

Examples:

  • 1. The court may overturn the previous ruling.
  • 2. Strong winds can overturn small boats easily.
  • 3. The protest aimed to overturn unfair policies.
  • 4. She managed to overturn the heavy vase accidentally.

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