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Pacifist: meaning, definitions and examples

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pacifist

 

[ˈpæs.ɪ.fɪst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

person

A pacifist is someone who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable and actively promotes peace and non-violence.

Synonyms

anti-war advocate, non-violent activist, peace-lover.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pacifist

A person who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable and seeks peaceful resolution of conflicts. This term can be used broadly for anyone opposed to violence.

  • She is a pacifist and refuses to participate in any form of military service
peace-lover

Someone who cherishes peace and prefers a calm, conflict-free life. It's often used to describe someone's personal preference rather than their activism or political stance.

  • He is a peace-lover who enjoys spending time in nature and avoiding arguments
non-violent activist

A person who fights for social or political change through peaceful means, often in the context of social justice movements.

  • The non-violent activist led a peaceful march to demand equal rights
anti-war advocate

Someone who actively opposes particular wars or the concept of war in general, often engaging in protests and campaigns.

  • As an anti-war advocate, he organizes rallies and gives speeches against ongoing military conflicts

Examples of usage

  • Pacifists often participate in protests against wars.
  • She is a committed pacifist who refuses to use any form of violence.
  • Many pacifists advocate for diplomatic solutions to conflicts.
  • John's decision to become a pacifist was influenced by his religious beliefs.
  • Being a pacifist does not mean being passive or indifferent towards injustice.
Context #2 | Adjective

belief

Relating to or characteristic of a pacifist; showing a belief in peaceful methods to resolve conflicts.

Synonyms

anti-war, non-violent, peaceful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pacifist

Used to describe a person who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable. Usually refers to a personal belief system or a lifestyle choice.

  • She was a pacifist and often participated in peace rallies
peaceful

Used to describe an environment, situation, or demeanor that is calm and without conflict. Can be applied to both individuals and settings.

  • The peaceful village was a perfect place for a weekend getaway
non-violent

Refers to actions or approaches that do not involve physical force or violence. Often used in the context of social or political movements.

  • They adopted non-violent methods of protest to seek justice and equality
anti-war

Describes a stance or movement that is opposed to a specific war or military action. Can be used in both formal and informal settings.

  • The anti-war protests drew thousands of participants in the city center

Examples of usage

  • Her pacifist beliefs guide her actions in all aspects of life.
  • The country adopted a pacifist stance in international relations.
  • Pacifist organizations work towards promoting non-violence.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'pacifist' comes from the Latin root 'pac-' meaning 'peace', and the suffix '-ist' that denotes someone who practices or believes in something.
  • It was first used in the early 20th century to describe those advocating for peace during a time of increasing conflict.

History

  • Notable figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. were famed pacifists who led major movements for civil rights using nonviolent methods.
  • During World War I, many pacifists were conscientious objectors, refusing military service due to their beliefs against war.

Pop Culture

  • Pacifist themes are explored in films like 'The Sound of Music', where the characters choose peace over conflict amidst war.
  • Music often reflects pacifist sentiments, such as John Lennon's 'Imagine', which envisions a world free from war.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that individuals identifying as pacifists may possess higher levels of empathy and emotional intelligence.
  • Pacifism is often linked to the concept of moral reasoning, as these individuals carefully consider the impacts of their actions on others.

Literature

  • Many literary works, like Hemingway's 'A Farewell to Arms', critique warfare and advocate for peace, embodying pacifist ideals.
  • Through characters who embody pacifism, authors often explore the tension between personal beliefs and societal expectations in times of conflict.

Translations

Translations of the word "pacifist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pacifista

🇮🇳 शांतिवादी

🇩🇪 Pazifist

🇮🇩 pasifis

🇺🇦 пацифіст

🇵🇱 pacyfista

🇯🇵 平和主義者

🇫🇷 pacifiste

🇪🇸 pacifista

🇹🇷 pasifist

🇰🇷 평화주의자

🇸🇦 مسالم

🇨🇿 pacifista

🇸🇰 pacifista

🇨🇳 和平主义者

🇸🇮 pacifist

🇮🇸 friðarsinni

🇰🇿 бейбітшіл

🇬🇪 პაციფისტი

🇦🇿 sülhpərvər

🇲🇽 pacifista

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,795, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.