# insurgency

/ˌɪnˈsɝdʒənsi/ (US) · /ɪnsˈɜːdʒənsi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/insurgency
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a violent struggle by a group of people who are trying to take control from their government. It is usually an organized fight that lasts for a long time.

For teachers: an active revolt or uprising against a constituted government or established authority. Often involves guerrilla warfare or irregular tactics rather than conventional military engagement.

## Examples

- The government is struggling to end the insurgency in the north.
- Military leaders warned that the local insurgency was gaining strength due to a lack of economic opportunities in the region.
- Historians often debate whether the movement should be classified as a popular revolution or a localized insurgency funded by external political actors seeking to destabilize the regime.

## Usage notes

- Countable when referring to a specific instance of revolt; uncountable when referring to the general state of rebellion.

---

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.