Meaning
叛变 refers to the act of betraying one's country, organization, or cause by switching allegiance to the opposing side. It carries a strong negative connotation and is often used in political, military, or organizational contexts to describe serious acts of treason or betrayal.
Usage
This is a formal, serious word typically used in political discourse, historical accounts, military contexts, and news reports. It implies a deliberate act of switching sides and is much stronger than simply 'changing one's mind.' The word is often used with 者 (zhě) to form 叛变者 (traitor/defector).
Examples
- 01这名将军在战争期间叛变投敌，成为历史上的耻辱。, .This general defected to the enemy during the war and became a disgrace in history.
- 02组织内部有人叛变，导致了机密信息的泄露。, .Someone within the organization defected, leading to the leak of classified information.
Characters
Measure words
- 起一起叛变事件
Common collocations
- 叛变投敌to defect to the enemy
- 叛变者defector, traitor
- 发生叛变a defection occurs
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 叛 (to rebel/betray) with 变 (to change), literally meaning 'to change through betrayal' or 'a rebellious transformation,' emphasizing the shift in loyalty or allegiance.