Peace: meaning, definitions and examples

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peace

 

[ piːs ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

state of harmony

Peace is a state of harmony characterized by the absence of violent conflict. It can also refer to a quiet and calm state of mind or a period of time without war or fighting. Peace is often associated with tranquility, serenity, and absence of hostility.

Synonyms

calm, harmony, quiet, serenity, tranquility.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
peace

Use this word to describe a state of no conflict or war, or a general sense of social or personal calmness.

  • After the treaty was signed, the region finally experienced peace
  • She felt a deep peace after her meditation
harmony

Use this word to describe a situation where different elements are in a pleasing or balanced arrangement, often used in social, musical, or natural contexts.

  • Families should live in harmony with each other
  • The choir's voices blended in perfect harmony
calm

This word is best when referring to a state of being free from agitation or strong emotions, both internally and in the environment.

  • The sea was unusually calm this morning
  • He tried to remain calm during the stressful meeting
serenity

This word fits when you want to evoke a sense of deep, lasting calm and peace, often in a natural or personal sense.

  • She found serenity in the mountains
  • The garden was a place of serenity
tranquility

Choose this word to emphasize a state of quiet and peace, particularly in a natural or environmental context.

  • The tranquility of the lake was mesmerizing
  • He yearned for the tranquility of a simple life
quiet

Employ this word when referring to an absence of noise or a subdued environment.

  • The library is a place where you can enjoy some quiet
  • She prefers the quiet of the countryside

Examples of usage

  • The treaty brought peace to the warring nations.
  • She meditates every morning to find inner peace.
  • The peaceful garden was a place of refuge.
  • The protesters called for peace and unity.
  • The absence of peace can lead to chaos and suffering.
Context #2 | Verb

make peaceful

To peace means to make peaceful or to bring about a state of harmony. It can involve resolving conflicts, calming tensions, or promoting understanding and cooperation among individuals or groups.

Synonyms

calm, harmonize, reconcile, resolve.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
peace

Used when referring to a state of no conflict, especially in terms of war, societal unrest, or personal tranquility.

  • After years of conflict, the two nations finally signed a peace treaty
  • She found peace in the quiet of the countryside
resolve

Used to describe the act of finding a solution to a problem, conflict, or difficulty.

  • The team worked late into the night to resolve the issue with the software
  • They met to resolve their disagreements and move forward
calm

Used to describe a state of tranquility or absence of agitation, both in a physical or emotional sense.

  • The lake was calm, reflecting the clear blue sky above
  • Despite the chaos around her, she remained calm and composed
reconcile

Used to describe the process of making two opposing viewpoints, people, or ideas compatible or coming to an agreement after a dispute.

  • After a long argument, they finally managed to reconcile their differences
  • The mediator helped the two parties reconcile and find a mutually beneficial solution
harmonize

Used when referring to making different things work together smoothly, often used in the context of music or relationships.

  • The choir members worked hard to harmonize their voices for the performance
  • The different departments need to harmonize their efforts to achieve the company's goals

Examples of usage

  • The leaders worked to peace the conflicting parties.
  • She tried to peace the situation by offering a compromise.
  • Their goal is to peace the community through dialogue and reconciliation.

Etymology

The word 'peace' originated from the Latin word 'pax' and has been used for centuries to describe the absence of war or conflict. Throughout history, peace has been a fundamental concept in various cultures and religions, symbolizing harmony, unity, and tranquility. Achieving peace has been a goal for individuals, societies, and nations, leading to the formation of peace treaties, organizations, and movements dedicated to promoting peace and resolving conflicts peacefully.

See also: peacebuilding, peaceful, peacefully, peacefulness, peacekeeping, peacemaker, peacemaking.

Word Frequency Rank

At #871 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.