Choose the foreign phrase that can replace the underlined words in the given sentence:
News reached the capital late at night that the army had carried out a sudden and illegal seizure of power.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → coup d’etat
A sudden and illegal seizure of power is the taking of control of a country by force and against the law. The foreign phrase for it is coup d’etat. Example: The history chapter tells of a sudden and illegal seizure of power in a small island nation.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) coup de grace | a final blow that ends something, such as a long struggle | The third goal was the coup de grace for the tired visiting team. |
| (2) coup d’etat (answer) | a sudden and often violent takeover of a government by a small group, such as the army | The news channel showed tanks on the streets of the capital after the coup d’etat. |
| (3) carte blanche | full freedom to act as one wishes | The principal gave the student council carte blanche to plan the annual fest. |
| (4) tour de force | a piece of work or a performance done with great skill | Meera’s solo dance on Annual Day was a tour de force. |