Definition

1. Verb:
   • To completely and fundamentally change something, often by introducing new methods or ideas: This is the core meaning, indicating a transformation so significant it alters the very nature or foundation of a system, process, or field.
   • To overthrow a government or system by revolution: This meaning is specifically political, referring to the act of causing or effecting a revolution to replace an existing regime.

Usage and Examples

• Verb (General Transformation):

  • The invention of the internet revolutionized how people access information.
  • This new software has the potential to revolutionize the entire industry.
  • Her theories revolutionized our understanding of physics.

• Verb (Political Overthrow):

  • The rebels sought to revolutionize the corrupt government.
  • The aim of the movement was to revolutionize the existing social order.

Advanced Usage

• "to revolutionize the way [something is done]": A common collocation emphasizing a change in methodology.

  • Streaming services revolutionized the way we consume movies and music.

• Used in passive voice: Often describes the state of a field or system after a major change.

  • The field of medicine has been revolutionized by genetic research.

Variants and Related Words

• Revolution (n): A fundamental and sudden change in political power or organizational structures, or a dramatic change in ideas or practice.
• Revolutionary (adj): Involving or causing a complete or dramatic change. (adj): Relating to a political revolution. (n): A person who advocates or engages in a revolution.
• Revolutionizer (n): One who revolutionizes something (less common).

Synonyms

• Transform: To change in form, appearance, or structure.
• Overhaul: To examine thoroughly and make necessary repairs or changes.
• Modernize: To adapt something to modern needs or habits.
• Upend: To set or turn something on its end; to cause great change.

Antonyms

• Preserve: To maintain something in its original or existing state.
• Stagnate: To cease developing or advancing.
• Uphold: To maintain or support a tradition, system, or law.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Paradigm shift: A fundamental change in the basic concepts and experimental practices of a scientific discipline, closely related to the concept of revolutionizing a field.
• Game-changer (n): A person, idea, or event that completely changes the current situation or way of doing something (a more informal synonym for a revolutionary agent).

Verb

1. fill with revolutionary ideas
2. overthrow by a revolution, of governments
3. change radically
   • E-mail revolutionized communication in academe