# jihad

/ˈdʒihæd/ (US) · /dʒɪhˈɑːd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/jihad
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 3. an aggressive campaign

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary

a very strong or determined campaign for a specific cause or idea.

For teachers: a vigorous or aggressive campaign for a political or social cause.

- The activist began a jihad against the use of plastic in the local ocean.
- The editorial board launched a metaphorical jihad against the proposed tax reforms, arguing they would devastate the middle class.

Teaching tip: This metaphorical use can be sensitive; students should be aware that it may be seen as offensive or hyperbolic depending on the audience.

## Examples

- The scholar spoke about the internal jihad for self-improvement.
- Scholars often distinguish between the internal struggle for spiritual discipline and the external efforts to maintain social justice, both of which fall under the broad concept of jihad.

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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.