Battalions: meaning, definitions and examples

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battalions

 

[bəˈtæliənz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military

A large body of troops ready for battle.

Synonyms

army, soldiers, troops.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
battalions

Used to describe large units of soldiers, typically part of an army or larger military structure. This term emphasizes the organizational grouping of infantry, often in a formal and structured manner.

  • Three battalions were sent to secure the northern border.
  • The general commanded several battalions during the campaign.
troops

A collective term for soldiers or armed forces, often used to describe groups of soldiers in a more informal way. It highlights the collective action and movement of military personnel.

  • Troops were deployed to maintain peace in the region.
  • The commander ordered the troops to advance.
army

Refers to the entire armed forces of a nation or a large, organized military force equipped for fighting on land. This term is broad and encompasses all units within the armed forces, including battalions.

  • The army was mobilized to respond to the threat.
  • She has served in the army for over ten years.
soldiers

Refers to individual members of the military. The term is versatile and can be used in many contexts to describe people who serve in the armed forces, usually emphasizing the human aspect.

  • Soldiers are trained to handle difficult and dangerous situations.
  • A group of soldiers were honored for their bravery.

Examples of usage

  • The commander led his battalions into the battlefield.
  • The battalions marched in formation towards the enemy.
  • The battalions were well-equipped and well-trained for the mission.
Context #2 | Noun

organization

A large organized group of people working together towards a common goal.

Synonyms

force, group, team.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
battalions

Plural form of 'battalion', referring to multiple large military units. Used in formal, military contexts when speaking about more than one battalion.

  • Several battalions were needed to secure the region.
  • The army consists of numerous battalions, each specialized in different tasks.
group

A more informal or general term for any collection of people or things considered together. Suitable for everyday use in various contexts.

  • The study group meets every Wednesday to review chapters.
  • She joined a hiking group to explore the local trails.
team

A term for a small number of people who work together towards a common goal. Commonly used in professional, sports, and collaborative contexts.

  • The engineering team worked late to finish the project.
  • Our soccer team won the championship last year.
force

A general term for a body of troops or a group of people organized for a specific purpose. It can be used in both military and non-military contexts.

  • The police force was quick to respond to the emergency.
  • A multinational peacekeeping force was assembled to stabilize the region.

Examples of usage

  • The company formed battalions to tackle the project.
  • The battalions of volunteers worked tirelessly to help those in need.
  • The political party mobilized its battalions for the upcoming election.

Interesting Facts

Military Organization

  • A battalion typically consists of around 300 to 1,000 soldiers and is a key unit in an army's structure.
  • Battalions can be divided into smaller units called companies, which make them easier to manage during operations.
  • In modern armies, a battalion often includes specialized units like medics, engineers, and artillery.

Historical Context

  • The term originated from the French word 'bataillon,' meaning 'battle' or 'battle group', during the late medieval period.
  • Throughout history, especially in the Napoleonic Wars, battalions were pivotal in changing the tactics of warfare.
  • Different countries have various standards defining the size and organization of battalions, with adaptations for their specific military strategies.

Pop Culture

  • Battalions have often been depicted in movies and books as heroic groups, symbolizing teamwork and courage.
  • Video games about warfare frequently use battalions as playable units, allowing strategic gameplay.
  • Famous historical battles, such as those depicted in the 'Band of Brothers' series, showcase the critical role of battalions in combat.

Psychology

  • Studies show that belonging to a battalion can foster a strong sense of camaraderie and loyalty among soldiers.
  • The psychological impact of losing comrades in a battalion can have lasting effects on soldiers, often addressed in therapy.
  • Researchers examine how training within a battalion can enhance teamwork skills and leadership qualities in individuals.

Language Evolution

  • The word 'battalion' has evolved in English to refer not just to military groups but also to any organized group working towards a common goal.
  • Usage in literature and speech has broadened, leading to expressions like 'battalion of fans' showing their zeal and unity.
  • In legal and political contexts, 'battalions' can metaphorically refer to organized groups advocating for specific causes.

Translations

Translations of the word "battalions" in other languages:

🇵🇹 batalhões

🇮🇳 बटालियनें

🇩🇪 Bataillone

🇮🇩 batalyon

🇺🇦 батальйони

🇵🇱 bataliony

🇯🇵 大隊 (だいたい)

🇫🇷 bataillons

🇪🇸 batallones

🇹🇷 taburlar

🇰🇷 대대 (대대들)

🇸🇦 كتائب

🇨🇿 prapory

🇸🇰 prápory

🇨🇳 营 (yíng)

🇸🇮 bataljoni

🇮🇸 herdeildir

🇰🇿 батальондар

🇬🇪 ბატალიონები

🇦🇿 batalyonlar

🇲🇽 batallones

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,187, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.