Translation guide
The English word "coup" most often refers to a sudden, illegal seizure of power from a government (coup d'état). This guide covers how to express that concept in Japanese, as well as related figurative uses.
To refer to a sudden, violent, or illegal seizure of power from a government.
The most common and direct translation, borrowed from French. Used in news and everyday conversation.
The military staged a coup.
He was arrested for an attempted coup.
A more formal or written term meaning 'political change' or 'coup'. Often used in historical or analytical contexts.
The government fell in the 1936 coup.
An abbreviation of クーデター, used in casual or slang contexts, often in compounds.
Apparently there was another coup in that country.
To describe a sudden, clever, and highly successful move, especially in business, politics, or personal achievement.
Means 'great success' or 'big hit'. Often used when someone pulls off a remarkable achievement.
His new work was a real coup.
Means 'great feat' or 'brilliant achievement'. Implies a personal triumph or a clever move that brings acclaim.
Means 'brilliant achievement' or 'splendid feat'. Often used in sports or public accomplishments.
An exclamation meaning 'I did it!' or 'I pulled it off!'. Used when someone successfully executes a clever plan.
What a coup! I got the contract.
クーデター is the standard term for a coup d'état and is widely understood. 政変 is more formal and can refer to any sudden political change, not necessarily illegal or violent. In news reports, クーデター is more common.
A coup occurred.
The regime changed due to a political upheaval.
In English, 'coup' can mean a clever success. Do not use クーデター for this meaning; it only refers to a violent overthrow. Use words like 大成功 or 大手柄 instead.
The coup attempt failed.
Landing that client was a major coup for the firm.
ライバル会社から社長を引き抜いたのは大手柄だ。
Poaching the president from a rival company was a real coup.
The underdog team's victory is a real coup.