What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
toppling
Example
The stack of books began toppling over as soon as I removed one from the bottom. [toppling: present participle]
Example
The earthquake caused several buildings to topple, trapping people inside. [topple: verb]
overturn
Example
The strong wind overturned the patio furniture, scattering it across the yard. [overturned: past tense]
Example
The court of appeals overturned the lower court's decision, granting a new trial. [overturn: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overturn is more commonly used than topple in everyday language. Overturn is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while topple is less common and refers to a specific type of falling or collapse.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between toppling and overturn?
Both topple and overturn are generally considered formal words, but overturn may be slightly more formal due to its frequent usage in legal and political contexts.
