turncoat

/'tə:nkout/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition

Noun: A person who abandons their allegiance, principles, or associates, especially in a time of need, and joins the opposing side. A turncoat is characterized by disloyalty and betrayal.

Usage

The word "turncoat" is a noun used to describe a person who has changed sides in a conflict or dispute, betraying their original group, cause, or beliefs. It carries a strong negative connotation of treachery and opportunism. It is often used in political, military, or ideological contexts.

Examples
  • The general was branded a turncoat for surrendering his forces to the enemy.
  • In the history books, he is remembered not as a reformer but as a turncoat who abandoned his party's core values.
  • She felt like a turncoat for leaving the company to work for its main competitor.
Advanced Usage
  • "To become a turncoat": This phrase describes the act of changing sides.
    • Faced with certain defeat, several soldiers chose to become turncoats.
  • "Turncoat behavior": Used to describe actions characteristic of a traitor.
    • His turncoat behavior shocked his former allies.
Variants and Related Words
  • Turn (verb): While the verb "to turn" has many meanings, in the context of betrayal, it can mean to change allegiance.
    • He turned against his own family.
  • Turncoatism (noun, rare): The practice or behavior characteristic of a turncoat.
Synonyms
  • Traitor: One who betrays a trust or allegiance.
  • Defector: One who abandons a cause, nation, or group for another.
  • Renegade: A person who deserts and betrays an organization, country, or set of principles.
  • Apostate: A person who renounces a religious or political belief or principle.
Antonyms
  • Loyalist: A person who remains loyal to the established ruler or government.
  • Patriot: A person who vigorously supports their country and is prepared to defend it.
  • Ally: A person or organization that cooperates with or helps another.
Idioms and Phrases
  • "To show one's true colors": While not identical, this idiom relates to revealing one's true, often disloyal, character, which a turncoat ultimately does.
    • He showed his true colors when he sold the secret plans.
Noun
  1. a disloyal person who betrays or deserts his cause or religion or political party or friend etc.

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