coup
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coup
A violent and unconstitutional overthrow of the existing government by a small group, often by the military. Another word for this is 'Putsch' (putsch/coup).
Das Militär versuchte, durch einen Staatsstreich die Macht im Land zu übernehmen.
The military tried to seize power in the country through a coup.
The word consists of 'Staat' (state), the linking element '-s-', and 'Streich' (blow/trick). A 'Streich' is a blow or a cunning act. So a Staatsstreich is figuratively a 'blow against the state' intended to overthrow the government.
Die Anführer des gescheiterten Staatsstreichs wurden verhaftet.
The leaders of the failed coup were arrested.
'Staatsstreich' (coup) is often combined with verbs that describe the attempt, execution, or failure. Typical phrases are: 'einen Staatsstreich planen' (to plan a coup), 'durchführen' (to carry out), 'versuchen' (to attempt), or 'ein Staatsstreich scheitert' (a coup fails).
Eine Gruppe von Generälen plante einen Staatsstreich gegen den Präsidenten.
A group of generals planned a coup against the president.
A Staatsstreich (coup) is often carried out by a small but powerful group. In many cases, the military is the driving force behind such an attempted overthrow.
Die Bevölkerung fürchtete einen Staatsstreich durch das Militär.
The population feared a coup by the military.
revolution
'die Revolution' and 'der Staatsstreich' can both refer to a political overthrow. A 'Revolution' is usually broader: many people or large parts of society want to fundamentally change the political and social order. A 'Staatsstreich', on the other hand, is usually a quick, unconstitutional seizure of power by a small group, often by the military. The words can be confused because in both cases a government may be overthrown. When it is about a broad movement, 'Revolution' fits better; when a small group suddenly takes power, 'Staatsstreich' is more precise.
Nach dem Staatsstreich kontrollierte das Militär die Regierung.
After the coup, the military controlled the government.
Die Revolution veränderte das ganze politische System des Landes.
The revolution changed the country's entire political system.