How to say "coup" in Japanese

• クーデターCommon
  nounThe direct, standard word for 'coup' or 'coup d'état': the seizure of state power, typically by military or other forceful means. Use it when describing an actual coup event.
  クーデターは慎重しんちょうに遂行すいこうされた。↗

  The coup was meticulously executed.
• 政変せいへんCommon
  nounA broader term for political upheaval or change of government. A coup can be called a 政変, but the word also covers non-violent power shifts, so it is less specific than クーデター.

Use 「クーデター」 for the concrete act of overthrowing a government by force; 政変 covers broader political upheavals or changes of government, including coups but also non-violent shifts of power.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• クーデターcoup d'état
• 政変せいへんpolitical disturbance
• 大金星だいきんぼしsurprise victory