# conscription

/kənsˈkɹɪpʃən/ (US) · /kɒnskɹˈɪpʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/conscription
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the act of forcing people to join the army, usually by law. It is often used when a country needs more soldiers during a war.

For teachers: the compulsory enlistment of people into a national service, typically by a government. Often used in the context of military service during times of conflict.

## Examples

- The country ended conscription after the war ended.
- During the early stages of the conflict, the government introduced conscription to fill the ranks of the armed forces.
- The debate over conscription often centers on the balance between national security needs and individual civil liberties, reflecting deep-seated societal values regarding personal freedom and collective duty.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.