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Paramilitary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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paramilitary

[หŒperษ™หˆmษชlษชหŒteri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

militant group

A paramilitary is a group of civilians organized in a military fashion, typically operating in support of a government or political group, and engaging in armed combat or other aggressive activities.

Synonyms

guerrilla, militia, vigilante.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
paramilitary

Use this word to describe semi-military organizations that are not part of the official military but resemble it in organization and functions. Often associated with government support or oversight.

  • The paramilitary forces assisted in the rescue operations during the disaster.
  • There are paramilitary units involved in border security.
militia

This term is best used for groups of civilians who are trained for military service but are not part of the regular army. Militias often come together for local defense and can be either officially supported by the government or operate independently.

  • The local militia was called in to help during the emergency.
  • Historically, many nations have relied on militias for additional defense.
guerrilla

This word is suitable for talking about small, independent groups that use unconventional tactics, often in opposition to a larger, more formal military. These groups usually operate without government support and often fight against established regimes.

  • The guerrilla fighters launched a surprise attack on the convoy.
  • Many guerrilla movements have operated in the mountains to avoid detection.
vigilante

This word should be used to describe individuals or groups taking law enforcement into their own hands without legal authority. Vigilantes often emerge in situations where the community feels the official justice system is failing. This term usually carries a negative connotation.

  • The vigilante group patrolled the streets after a series of crimes.
  • Vigilantes sometimes take drastic measures, leading to controversial outcomes.

Examples of usage

  • Paramilitaries were used to suppress opposition during the conflict.
  • The paramilitary group was heavily armed and dangerous.
Context #2 | Adjective

relating to paramilitary forces

Paramilitary is used to describe activities, organizations, or individuals that operate in a military fashion but are not part of the official armed forces.

Synonyms

armed, militant, unofficial.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
paramilitary

Used to refer to organizations or groups that resemble a military force but are not part of the official military. Often used in the context of security forces, insurgencies, or organizations engaged in political or social conflict.

  • The government has called for the disbanding of paramilitary groups.
  • The paramilitary forces were deployed to maintain order during the protests.
militant

Refers to individuals or groups that are aggressively active in support of a cause, often political or social. It usually carries a negative connotation and implies willingness to use violence or extreme measures.

  • The militant group claimed responsibility for the attack.
  • Militant activists clashed with the police during the protest.
armed

Describes individuals or groups that carry weapons. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts and may not necessarily imply a structured organization.

  • The police were alerted to the presence of armed men in the area.
  • The captain commanded an armed ship ready for combat.
unofficial

Use this to describe actions or groups that occur without formal approval, authorization, or sanction, especially in a political or governmental context. It does not inherently carry a negative connotation.

  • There were unofficial reports of the president's visit to the factory.
  • The meeting was unofficial, but it laid the groundwork for future negotiations.

Examples of usage

  • The paramilitary organization conducted covert operations in the region.
  • He was suspected of having paramilitary training.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'paramilitary' gained prominence in the 19th century, describing groups that operated alongside official military units during conflicts.
  • Many revolutionary movements used paramilitary forces throughout the 20th century, often to supplement official armies.
  • In some countries, government-sponsored paramilitary groups have been used to maintain control or suppress dissent.

Conflict and Warfare

  • Paramilitary groups are often involved in conflict zones where official military forces are either absent or overwhelmed by the situation.
  • In some regions, these groups provide security and stability, while in others, they may engage in illegal activities like smuggling.
  • Historical examples include the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in Northern Ireland and various militias in the Balkans.

Pop Culture

  • Paramilitary themes appear frequently in films and video games, often depicting them as either heroes or villains, adding drama to narratives.
  • Many popular video games feature paramilitary groups as antagonists, emphasizing their tactical training and unconventional methods.
  • Books and movies like 'American Sniper' or 'Clear and Present Danger' explore the complexities surrounding paramilitary operations.

Politics

  • Paramilitary organizations can sometimes influence political outcomes, especially in unstable regions where they can intimidate or rally community support.
  • In some cases, governments may turn a blind eye to the activities of these groups, leveraging them to carry out actions that may be politically sensitive or controversial.
  • The relationship between legitimate state military forces and paramilitary groups can be contentious, often raising debates about legality and ethics.

Psychology

  • Individuals in paramilitary groups often experience strong group identity, which can affect their behavior and decision-making during conflicts.
  • Research has shown that paramilitary involvement can lead to psychological effects, including PTSD, both during and after engagements.
  • Group dynamics within paramilitary organizations can influence aggression levels, making members more prone to risk-taking behavior.

Origin of 'paramilitary'

The term 'paramilitary' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'para-' (beside or alongside) with 'military'. It was initially used to refer to auxiliary forces or irregular military units. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a wide range of non-state armed groups, often with political or ideological motivations.

See also: militarism, militarized, nonmilitary.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,560, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.