Ceasefire Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ceasefire
[siːsfaɪər ]
Definition
military agreement
A ceasefire is a temporary stoppage of a war or conflict during which both sides agree to suspend aggressive actions. This can happen for a variety of reasons such as humanitarian concerns or negotiations for peace. Ceasefires can be official, sanctioned by governing bodies or organizations, or informal, depending on the parties involved. While ceasefires can lead to longer-term peace agreements, they may also be fragile and quickly undone if further negotiations fail.
Synonyms
armistice, suspension of hostilities, truce.
Examples of usage
- The two nations declared a ceasefire to allow for humanitarian aid.
- After weeks of fighting, both sides agreed to a ceasefire.
- The ceasefire lasted only a few days before hostilities resumed.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Ceasefires have been used in wars through history, often as a way to allow peace talks to begin.
- The term became more widely used during World War I when many ceasefires were declared on Christmas Day in 1914.
- In 1953, a ceasefire was agreed upon in the Korean War, creating the Korean Demilitarized Zone that still exists today.
Political Science
- Ceasefires can be temporary, lasting hours or days, or long-term agreements as part of a peace treaty.
- These agreements often include terms that both sides must follow to ensure peace is maintained.
- International organizations like the United Nations often help negotiate ceasefires in conflicts.
Literature
- Many novels and poems have used ceasefires as metaphors for personal conflicts, showing the struggle for peace.
- In literature, the moment of a ceasefire can symbolize hope and the possibility of reconciliation.
- Notable works explore the emotional and social ramifications that ceasefires have on individuals and communities.
Psychology
- The concept of a ceasefire can also apply to personal conflicts, representing a pause in arguments to allow for calm discussions.
- Psychologists suggest that taking a 'ceasefire' in heated situations can lead to more productive conversations.
- Understanding the need for ceasefires in communication can help resolve disputes and improve relationships.
Pop Culture
- Movies often portray ceasefires as pivotal moments that can change the course of a conflict, highlighting character development.
- In video games, 'ceasefire' events can create unique gameplay opportunities, encouraging collaboration between players.
- Songs about war sometimes reference ceasefires to express longing for peace and better times.
Origin of 'ceasefire'
The term 'ceasefire' combines 'cease,' which comes from the Old French 'ceser,' meaning 'to stop' or 'to bring to an end,' and 'fire,' derived from Old English 'fyr,' referring to conflict in this context. The use of the word 'ceasefire' in military lexicon has evolved significantly, especially in the 20th century, as the nature of warfare changed. Historically, ceasefires have been called upon during conflicts for various reasons, often to facilitate negotiations or allow for the collection of the wounded. With the rise of international organizations like the United Nations post-World War II, formal ceasefires have become more structured, often involving monitoring by third parties to ensure compliance. Over time, ceasefires have become a critical component in peace negotiations, reflecting the need for periods of calm to allow for diplomatic solutions amidst the chaos of conflict.