What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
toppled
Example
The vase toppled over and shattered on the floor. [toppled: past tense]
Example
The dictator's regime was toppled by a popular uprising. [toppled: verb]
overturn
Example
The strong winds caused the boat to overturn in the middle of the lake. [overturn: verb]
Example
The Supreme Court overturned the lower court's ruling. [overturned: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overturn is more commonly used than toppled in everyday language. Overturn is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while toppled is more specific and less common.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between toppled and overturn?
Both toppled and overturn can be used in formal and informal contexts, but overturn is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
