# militancy

/ˈmɪɫətənsi/ (US) · /mˈɪlɪtənsi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/militancy
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

the use of strong, sometimes violent, methods to achieve a political or social goal. It describes a group that is very determined and willing to fight for what they believe in.

For teachers: the use of force or aggressive tactics to achieve political or social objectives. Often associated with radical or revolutionary movements that reject negotiation in favor of direct action.

## Examples

- The group's militancy led to a series of violent protests.
- The union's increasing militancy during the strike eventually forced the management to agree to a new contract.
- Historians often debate whether the movement's shift toward militancy was a strategic necessity or a result of internal divisions that made peaceful negotiation impossible.

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