Militate: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• 'Militate' comes from the Latin word 'militari,' which means 'to serve as a soldier,' indicating a sense of active influence.
• The term entered English in the 15th century, originally used in contexts relating to battle or warfare.
• Over time, its meaning broadened to cover influences beyond the battlefield, including decisions and policies.

Legal Studies

• In legal contexts, to 'militate' often refers to factors that affect judicial decisions, such as evidence or precedents.
• Judges may consider various circumstances that militate for or against a decision, emphasizing the impact of different elements on justice.
• The phrase 'militating factors' is common in legal documents, highlighting influences that can affect outcomes of cases.

Social Sciences

• In sociology, forces that militate against social change can include cultural norms and established traditions.
• Political scientists study how economic conditions can militate towards or against a certain political outcome.
• Activism can often militate for social justice, indicating the role of collective action in effecting change.

Literature

• Classic literature often explores themes of fate, where characters face forces that militate against their desires.
• In poetry, authors might use 'militate' to discuss pressures that conflict with personal growth or freedom.
• Shakespeare's works frequently depict characters whose ambitions are militated against by societal expectations or their circumstances.

Psychology

• Cognitive biases can militate against rational decision-making, leading people to make less favorable or faulty choices.
• In therapy, understanding what militates against a person's progress can help formulate more effective treatment approaches.
• Coping mechanisms can militate towards resilience, showing how psychological strategies can influence emotional well-being.

Positioned at #22,924, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 22921 unaccounted
• 22922 inhumanity
• 22923 kink
• 22924 militate
• 22925 placard
• 22926 swerved
• 22927 irrationality
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