seizure of power
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seizure of power
The taking over of political control over a state or organization, often by undemocratic, illegitimate, or violent means.
Im Geschichtsunterricht wird die Machtübernahme der Nationalsozialisten 1933 behandelt.
In history class, the seizure of power by the National Socialists in 1933 is covered.
The word is made up of 'die Macht' (power) and 'die Übernahme' (takeover). 'Die Übernahme' comes from the verb 'übernehmen' (to take over). A 'Machtübernahme' (seizure of power) is therefore literally the act in which power is taken over.
Die Opposition warnte vor einer schleichenden Machtübernahme.
The opposition warned of a creeping seizure of power.
This word has a strong, usually negative meaning. It is used for political upheavals that are regarded as undemocratic or violent, not for a normal change of government.
Der General versuchte eine Machtübernahme durch das Militär.
The general attempted a seizure of power by the military.
Common verbs used with 'Machtübernahme' (seizure of power) are 'planen' (to plan), 'durchführen' (to carry out), or 'verhindern' (to prevent). It is also often used with the preposition 'nach' (after) to describe the time after the event.
Nach der Machtübernahme wurden viele Gesetze geändert.
After the seizure of power, many laws were changed.
coup
'der Putsch' and 'die Machtübernahme' can both describe a group gaining political control. But 'Putsch' specifically means the usually violent and illegal attempt to overthrow a government quickly. It is often associated with the military or a small group. 'Machtübernahme' is broader: it mainly describes the result or process of someone taking power, including in an organization. Learners may confuse the words because a 'Putsch' is often meant to lead to a 'Machtübernahme' (seizure of power). In practical terms: the 'Putsch' is the action against the government; the 'Machtübernahme' is the taking over of control.
Die Machtübernahme der neuen Führung wurde im ganzen Land kritisch diskutiert.
The new leadership's seizure of power was discussed critically throughout the country.
Nach dem Putsch schloss das Militär mehrere Fernsehsender.
After the coup, the military closed several television stations.