subversif
subversive
adjective soob-vair-SEEF Rare
Origin: Latin 'subvertere' (to overturn)
Usage Note
Subversif (feminine subversive) describes ideas, art, or people that challenge or undermine established authority or norms. It can be used approvingly in creative contexts ('daring, transgressive') or disapprovingly in political ones. Une activité subversive is a subversive activity. The related noun is la subversion.
Examples
"Son roman était jugé subversif à l'époque."
Natural Translation
His novel was considered subversive at the time.

Free starter pack
Building your French vocabulary?
Get the 100 most common French words as a free PDF — one email, no spam.
Related Words
Explore French by topic
FrenchNow
7 min read