Civilian: meaning, definitions and examples

General situations referring to people who are not in the military or police forces.

• The humanitarian aid is meant for civilian communities affected by the conflict.
• She decided to pursue a civilian career after leaving the army.

Used in formal or legal discussions, particularly in relation to laws of war or military operations, to describe individuals who are not engaged in combat.

• According to the Geneva Convention, noncombatants should be protected during armed conflicts.
• The soldiers were instructed to ensure the safety of all noncombatants in the area.

Refers to the collective group of people in a particular area or region who are not military personnel, often used in discussions about conflict zones or humanitarian efforts.

• The war had devastating effects on the civilian population.
• Efforts are being made to evacuate the civilian population from the danger zones.

Use in contrast to occupations or entities within the military.

• After retiring from the army, he found it difficult to adjust to civilian life

Use to refer to activities, roles, or objects that do not have a military function or association.

• The government allocated funds to both military and nonmilitary projects
• This equipment is designed for nonmilitary use

Use specifically to emphasize the non-involvement in combat during a conflict or war.

• During the battle, the hospital staff were considered noncombatants
• Noncombatants are granted certain protections under international law