usurp
Verb
Hard difficulty
What does “usurp” mean?
verb.to take (a position of power or importance) illegally or by force.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in passages discussing themes of authority, governance, or conflict, particularly in historical or political contexts. It emphasizes not just the act of taking power, but the illegitimacy and forcefulness of the action, distinguishing it from similar words like "assume," which does not carry the same connotation of illegality or aggression.
Common Confusions
Usurp implies taking power illegally or by force, while assume usually suggests taking on a role or responsibility without any implication of wrongdoing.
Do not choose usurp if the context emphasizes rightful succession or legitimate authority rather than taking a position of power or importance illegally or by force.
Example Sentences
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The general attempted to usurp power from the elected president.
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The mobsters tried to usurp the witness into changing his testimony.