Martial: meaning, definitions and examples

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martial

 

[ ˈmɑːrʃəl ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

arts

Relating to or suggesting war or a warrior. Relating to the armed forces or to military life. Having a resolute and determined disposition.

Synonyms

combatant, fighting, military, warlike.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
martial

Use this term when referring to things related to war and armed forces, often with a formal or serious tone.

  • His martial training made him a disciplined soldier
  • The city declared martial law
warlike

Use this term to describe someone or something that is aggressive and eager for war. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The king was known for his warlike stance
  • His warlike behavior caused tension among the neighboring villages
military

This term is ideal for describing anything related to the armed forces. It encompasses a broad range of activities, institutions, and roles.

  • He had a distinguished military career
  • The country invests heavily in military technology
combatant

This is best used to refer to someone who is actively engaged in fighting, usually in a war or battle.

  • The combatants on both sides fought bravely
  • She became a combatant in the army
fighting

A general term used to describe physical conflict or combat between individuals or groups. It can be used in both serious and informal contexts.

  • There was intense fighting throughout the night
  • The kids were fighting over a toy

Examples of usage

  • He showed a martial spirit during the competition.
  • The country has a long history of martial tradition.
  • She has a martial attitude towards challenges.
Context #2 | Noun

arts

A code of honor and ethics developed by the samurai in Japan. A collection of exercises and movements in the practice of martial arts.

Synonyms

bushido, combat techniques, martial arts.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
martial

Used to describe activities, skills, or attributes related to war, the military, or combat.

  • The soldier's martial discipline was impressive.
  • Martial law was imposed during the conflict.
bushido

Refers to the traditional code of the Japanese samurai, focusing on virtues like honor, discipline, and loyalty.

  • He lived his life according to the principles of Bushido.
  • The teachings of Bushido still influence modern Japanese culture.
martial arts

Describes various systems of training for combat and self-defense, typically involving physical exercises and practices derived from East Asian traditions.

  • Karate is one of the most well-known martial arts.
  • She practices martial arts to improve her fitness and self-defense skills.
combat techniques

Refers specifically to practical methods and skills used in fighting or self-defense.

  • The class taught advanced combat techniques for real-world situations.
  • He spent years mastering various combat techniques.

Examples of usage

  • The martial of the samurai emphasized loyalty and self-discipline.
  • She practiced the martial diligently to improve her skills.

Translations

Translations of the word "martial" in other languages:

🇵🇹 marcial

🇮🇳 सैन्य

🇩🇪 kriegerisch

🇮🇩 militer

🇺🇦 військовий

🇵🇱 wojenny

🇯🇵 軍事の

🇫🇷 martial

🇪🇸 marcial

🇹🇷 askeri

🇰🇷 군사의

🇸🇦 عسكري

🇨🇿 válečný

🇸🇰 vojenský

🇨🇳 军事的

🇸🇮 vojaški

🇮🇸 hernaðarlegur

🇰🇿 әскери

🇬🇪 სამხედრო

🇦🇿 hərbi

🇲🇽 marcial

Etymology

The word 'martial' originates from the Latin word 'martialis', meaning 'of Mars' (the Roman god of war). It was first used in English in the 14th century to describe things related to war or the military. Over time, it has come to be associated with qualities such as bravery, discipline, and strength.

See also: mart, marten, Martian, martlet, martyr.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,306 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.