# pacifism

/ˈpæsɪˌfɪzəm/ (US) · /pˈæsɪfˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pacifism
Updated: 2026-10-21

## Definition

the belief that war and violence are always wrong, and that people should solve problems without fighting.

For teachers: opposition to war and violence on principle, holding that conflicts should be settled by peaceful means rather than armed force.

## Examples

- She believes in pacifism and opposes all wars.
- After serving as a medic in the war, he embraced pacifism and joined peace campaigns.
- Her commitment to pacifism influenced her career in diplomacy, where she consistently pushed for negotiation over military intervention.

---

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.