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Militate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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militate

[ˈmɪlɪˌteɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

To militate means to have a substantial effect or to influence a situation or outcome. This term is often used in legal and formal contexts to describe how certain factors work against or support a particular decision or condition. For example, when considering a court case, various elements may militate for or against a specific ruling based on facts or legal precedents.

Synonyms

affect, contradict, influence.

Examples of usage

  • The evidence militates against his innocence.
  • Factors that militate in favor of a settlement include both party interests.
  • Several conditions militate against a quick resolution.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'militate'

Main points about word origin

  • '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.

The word 'militate' originates from the Latin term 'militare', meaning 'to serve as a soldier'. This has evolved through various forms in Middle English and early modern English. Its initial usage was linked to military service, where the influences of different factors were often discussed in terms of warfare and strategy. Over time, militate began to be employed more broadly in legal and formal language to denote the influence of facts and circumstances in various contexts. Its transition signifies an expansion from strictly military implications to a broader application regarding causation and effect. The root concept remains centered on the idea of active influence, whether in combat, legality, or situational dynamics.

Word Frequency Rank

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.