strategic
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
done as part of a plan that is meant to achieve a specific goal.
relating to a long-term plan or the overall aims of an organisation.
Simple“The company made a strategic decision to close its smaller shops and focus on online sales.”
In context“The board's strategic shift toward renewable energy sources was designed to ensure long-term viability in a changing regulatory landscape.”
UsageUsually placed before the noun.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
relating to large-scale military plans that help win a war, rather than just one small battle.
relating to the identification of long-term military objectives and the deployment of forces to achieve them, as opposed to tactical local engagements.
Simple“The island was in a strategic position for controlling the shipping lanes.”
In context“The deployment of strategic bombers served as a deterrent, signalling the nation's readiness to defend its interests across the entire region.”
UsageOften used to describe weapons, locations, or movements.
Synonymshigh levellong rangeAntonyms
Usage strategic partnership · strategic waterway
“It was the second attack this year at the airport , a strategic hub that serves as the ruling military’s command, hosting its air force base and most of its drones and aircraft.”
“As well as its strategic significance, the island chain – consisting of Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan and the Habomai islet group – provides access to rich fishing grounds and valuable mineral deposits.”
From Ancient Greek στρατηγικός (stratēgikós, “of or for a general", also "a treatise on strategy”), from στρατηγός (stratēgós, “the leader or commander of an army, a general”), from στρατός (stratós, “army”) + ἄγω (ágō, “I lead, I conduct”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.