militant
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.someone who uses strong or aggressive methods to support a political or social cause.
n.an individual who adopts aggressive or combative strategies in pursuit of a political or ideological objective.
Simple“The militants blocked the main road to protest the new government policy.”
In context“Security analysts observed that the militants had shifted their focus from peaceful demonstrations to more disruptive forms of direct action.”
UsageOften carries a negative connotation in mainstream media, implying a willingness to use force.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.willing to fight or use strong pressure to get what you want.
adj.combative and aggressive in support of a cause; typically used to describe groups, tactics, or attitudes.
Simple“The union took a militant approach during the negotiations for higher pay.”
In context“The group's militant rhetoric alienated some of its more moderate supporters, leading to a split in the organisation's leadership.”
Synonyms - 03 C2 Proficiency
n.an old word for a soldier or someone who fights in a war.
n.a combatant or soldier engaged in warfare. This sense is largely restricted to historical or religious contexts.
Simple“The old stories speak of the militants who defended the castle walls.”
In context“In medieval theology, the 'Church Militant' refers to the body of believers on earth who are seen as engaged in spiritual warfare.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is rare in modern English; learners will mostly encounter it in historical texts or specific religious phrases like 'Church Militant'.
“The Israeli military said on Sunday that its aircraft struck two Islamic Jihad and Hamas militants in Khan Younis and Nuseirat.”
“Marmar Ouda said he has been forced to erect metal fences around his home and bars on his windows to protect his family from attacks by militant settlers.”
From Middle French militant, from Latin mīlitāns, present participle of mīlitāre (“to serve as a soldier”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.