Definition

Noun: A counterrevolution is a revolution whose aim is to reverse the changes introduced by a previous revolution. It is a political movement that seeks to overthrow a recently established revolutionary government or system and restore the previous political order or a different one.

Usage

The term is used to describe an organized, often violent, political effort to undo the results of a successful revolution. It implies a direct and reactive opposition to revolutionary changes.

Examples

• The monarchists launched a counterrevolution in an attempt to restore the king to the throne.
• Historians debate whether the political movement was a true counterrevolution or merely a conservative reform effort.
• The new government feared the threat of a counterrevolution from the displaced elite.

Advanced Usage

• "to be crushed/suppressed": A counterrevolution is often met with force by the revolutionary government.
  • The attempted counterrevolution was swiftly crushed by the army.
• "to be launched/mounted": Describes the act of starting a counterrevolutionary movement.
  • The exiled generals mounted a counterrevolution from across the border.

Variants and Related Words

• Counterrevolutionary (noun): A person who participates in or supports a counterrevolution.
  • The revolutionaries arrested suspected counterrevolutionaries.
• Counterrevolutionary (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of a counterrevolution.
  • They uncovered a counterrevolutionary plot.

Synonyms

• Reaction: A movement towards the reversal of political or social progress.
• Backlash: A strong negative reaction by a large number of people, especially to social or political developments.

Related Phrases

• Counter-revolutionary activity: Actions taken to undermine a revolutionary government.
  • The regime accused him of counter-revolutionary activity.

Noun

1. a revolution whose aim is to reverse the changes introduced by a previous revolution