revolutionist
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /rˌɛvəlˈuːʃənˌɪst/
US
- /ˌrɛvəˈluʃənɪst/
Description
- person who supports a revolution
- supporter of radical change
- uprising supporter
- political radical
A revolutionist is not just someone caught up in a revolution; they are someone who supports it or works to bring it about. Think of it this way: many people may be unhappy with the way things are, but this kind of person believes the whole system needs major change, not just a few fixes. They want to replace the old order with something new.
The word is used mostly in political and social settings. You might think of people tied to major political movements, such as Thomas Paine or Vladimir Lenin. It often suggests strong, deep change in government or society. It does not always mean violence, but it usually points to a push for a complete change in the system rather than slow reform.
The term "revolutionist" refers to a person who supports, promotes, or takes part in a revolution: a sudden and far-reaching change in political power or in the structure of society. In most cases, the word is used in political or historical contexts, where people are trying to overthrow an existing government or social order and replace it with a new one.
A revolutionist is not simply unhappy with current conditions. They believe the existing system is deeply flawed and that small reforms are not enough. Instead, they argue for a complete break from the old system. That can mean spreading ideas, writing political texts, organizing groups, leading protests, or taking part in larger movements that aim to reshape society.
Historically, the word has been strongly linked to political movements. Figures connected to the French Revolution, the Russian Revolution, or other major uprisings are often described this way. In modern everyday English, however, people more often use words like "revolutionary" or "activist," so "revolutionist" can sound a little old-fashioned or formal.
It is helpful to distinguish a revolutionist from related words. A rebel may fight back against authority without having a clear plan for a new system. A reformist wants to improve the current system step by step. A revolutionist, by contrast, usually wants to replace the system itself. The word carries a strong sense of commitment to deep change and is most natural when talking about politics, history, and major social struggles.
Examples
- 1
Political radical
By his early twenties, he was already known as a revolutionist who wanted to overthrow the monarchy.
Usage
revolutionist is a formal or old-fashioned word; revolutionary is more common
- 2
Official labeling
In official newspapers, striking workers were often labeled revolutionists.
- 3
Historical judgment
Later historians argued that she was more of a reformer than a revolutionist.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- revolutionistnoun
Forms
- revolutionistspluralnoun