Definition

Noun: 1. The act of gaining control of a company: This refers to the process of one company acquiring a controlling interest in another, typically by purchasing a majority of its shares. This can be done through a friendly agreement (sale/merger) or a hostile bid against the wishes of the target company's management. 2. The act of seizing power or control: This refers to the forcible or illegal assumption of control, especially of a government, organization, or place.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Corporate):
  • The hostile takeover of the tech startup was finalized after months of negotiations.
  • The merger was structured as a friendly takeover by the larger conglomerate.
• Noun (Power/Control):
  • The military takeover of the government led to international sanctions.
  • The rebels' swift takeover of the capital was broadcast on live television.

Advanced Usage

• "to stage a takeover": to plan and execute a seizure of control.
  • Dissident shareholders attempted to stage a takeover of the board.
• "takeover bid": a formal offer to purchase enough shares to gain control of a company.
  • The company rejected the initial takeover bid as too low.

Variants and Related Words

• Take over (phrasal verb): to begin to have control of something.
  • The new manager will take over the department next week.
• Takeover target (noun phrase): a company that is the subject of a takeover bid.
  • Rumors of the merger made the firm a prime takeover target.

Synonyms

• Acquisition (especially for corporate context).
• Coup (especially for government/military context).
• Seizure.

Related Phrases

• Hostile takeover: A takeover attempted without the consent or approval of the target company's management.
• Friendly takeover: A takeover that is approved by the management of the target company.

Noun

1. a change by sale or merger in the controlling interest of a corporation
2. a sudden and decisive change of government illegally or by force