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Usurp vs Pillage - What's the difference?

usurp | pillage |

As verbs the difference between usurp and pillage

is that usurp is to seize power from another, usually by illegitimate means while pillage is (ambitransitive) to loot or plunder by force, especially in time of war.

As a noun pillage is

the spoils of war.

usurp

English

Verb

(en verb)
  • To seize power from another, usually by illegitimate means.
  • To use and assume the coat of arms of another person.
  • (obsolete) To make use of.
  • * 1662 , , Appendix, A Collection of Several Philosophical Writings of Dr. Henry More, p. 149:
  • ""

    pillage

    English

    Verb

    (pillag)
  • (ambitransitive) To loot or plunder by force, especially in time of war.
  • * 1911 , ,
  • Archibald V. (1361-1397) was Count of Perigord. He was nominally under the lilies [France], but he pillaged indiscriminately in his county.

    Noun

    (-)
  • The spoils of war.
  • * Shakespeare
  • Which pillage they with merry march bring home.
  • The act of pillaging.
  • Noun

    (m)
  • looting