takeover
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /tˈeɪkəʊvə/
US
- /ˈteɪˌkoʊvər/
Description
- acquisition
- assumption of control
- seizing power
- change in ownership
A takeover is about one person, group, or company gaining control of something that was controlled by someone else before. You will often see it in business, where one company gets control of another, sometimes in a friendly way and sometimes against the wishes of the people in charge. Think of it like one side stepping in and ending up in charge.
The word carries a clear sense of change. A hostile takeover happens when a company tries to gain control of another company even though its managers do not want the deal. The word can also be used more broadly for politics, media, or public life when one side suddenly gains control or influence. In every case, the main idea is the same: control moves from one side to another.
The word "takeover" describes a situation where one person, group, or company gains control of something, usually replacing the people who were in charge before. It is used most often in business, especially when one company gains ownership or control of another, but it can also appear in politics, government, media, sports, and other areas where power changes hands.
A classic example is a hostile takeover, where a company tries to gain control of another company without support from its management. In that setting, the word often suggests a serious struggle for power, money, and decision-making. A more neutral business takeover can happen when both sides agree to the deal, but the basic idea is still the same: new owners or leaders take control.
Outside business, "takeover" can describe other big shifts in control. People may speak of a political takeover when a new party or movement gains power, or a military takeover when the armed forces seize control of a country. It can also be used more loosely for situations where one force becomes dominant, such as a social media takeover of daily life or a foreign takeover of a local club or institution.
The key element in a takeover is a clear shift in power, control, or ownership. It usually suggests that the change is important and may affect the people involved in a major way. So when you hear the word "takeover," think of a moment when control moves from one side to another, whether through agreement, pressure, or force.
Examples
- 1
Business acquisition
The company announced a takeover of its smaller rival last week.
- 2
Foreign ownership
Many employees worried that a foreign takeover would lead to job cuts.
- 3
Hostile bid
The board rejected the hostile takeover bid.
Domain
hostile takeover bid
an attempt to buy a company without support from its current leaders
- 4
Military coup
After the military takeover, the country's borders were closed.
- 5
Sports domination
In the second half, it was a complete takeover by the home team.
Pattern
a takeover by + person/group
a situation where they suddenly control the event or situation
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- takeovernoun
Forms
- takeoverspluralnoun