to take someone's position or power by force or without the right to do so, to use something without the right to do so

usurp the throne, usurp someone's rights, usurp someone's place in line

usurp power, usurp authority, usurp someone's place

Formal and Informal Expressions of usurp

In different contexts, you can replace 'usurp' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'seize, commandeer' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'grab, snatch' is a commonplace synonym.

usurp: Explore its Definition & Usage

usurp Definition

1to take someone's position or power by force or without the right to do so
2to use something without the right to do so

Using usurp: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "usurp" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The general was accused of trying to usurp the throne.
Example
The new CEO has usurped all the power from the board of directors.
Example
He tried to usurp my authority by making decisions without consulting me.

usurp Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for usurp

Antonyms for usurp

Idioms Using usurp

usurp the throne
to take control of a kingdom or country by force and become its ruler
Example
The prince plotted to usurp the throne from his father.
usurp someone's rights
to take away someone's legal or moral rights without the right to do so
Example
The government was accused of trying to usurp the rights of its citizens.
usurp someone's place in line
to take someone's turn in a queue without the right to do so
Example
The man tried to usurp someone's place in line at the supermarket.

Phrases with usurp

usurp power
to take control of a position of power without the right to do so
Example
The dictator usurped power in a military coup.
usurp authority
to take control of a position of authority without the right to do so
Example
The manager accused his assistant of trying to usurp his authority.
usurp someone's place
to take someone's position without the right to do so
Example
The new employee tried to usurp the position of the senior staff member.

Origins of usurp

from Old French 'usurper', from Latin 'usurpare', from 'usus' (use) + 'rapere' (seize)

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Summary: usurp in Brief

The verb 'usurp' [yoo-surp] means to take someone's position or power by force or without the right to do so, or to use something without the right to do so. It can refer to taking control of a position of power or authority, as in 'The new CEO has usurped all the power from the board of directors,' or taking someone's place, as in 'The new employee tried to usurp the position of the senior staff member.' 'Usurp' can also be used in idioms like 'usurp the throne,' meaning to take control of a kingdom or country by force and become its ruler.