Raid: meaning, definitions and examples

A raid typically refers to a sudden and surprise attack, often for the purpose of causing damage or stealing something. It is commonly used in the context of military actions or police operations.

• The police conducted a raid on the drug dealer’s house last night.
• The town suffered a raid from enemy forces at dawn.

Attack is a general term for any aggressive action aimed at causing harm or damage. It can be used in a wide range of contexts including warfare, personal conflicts, and verbal confrontations.

• The hackers launched an attack on the company's server.
• The politician faced a harsh verbal attack from his opponents.

An assault is a violent attack, often with the intention to cause physical harm or overpower the target. It is also used in legal contexts to describe a criminal physical attack.

• The victim of the assault was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.
• The commander ordered an assault on the enemy's front lines.

An incursion refers to a brief or sudden invasion or entry into an area, often without permission. It is usually used in military or political contexts.

• There was a minor incursion at the border last night.
• The government condemned the incursion into its airspace.

Used when referring to a sudden attack or incursion by authorities such as police or military into a place to catch criminals or seize illegal materials.

• The police conducted a raid on the warehouse to find the stolen goods
• The army launched a raid on the enemy's camp

Indicates looking for something or someone, often used by authorities in a less aggressive manner compared to a raid or bust. It can refer to both legal and everyday situations.

• The police carried out a search of the suspect's house
• There was a search for the missing child in the neighborhood

Refers to a planned and organized activity conducted by police, military, or other official bodies to achieve a specific goal which often involves a raid or bust. It is used more broadly and formally than 'raid' or 'bust'.

• The undercover operation led to the arrest of multiple criminals
• A large-scale operation was launched to dismantle the smuggling ring

Commonly used in informal contexts to describe the action of authorities breaking up illegal activities, especially drug-related crimes. It often carries a somewhat negative or sensational tone.

• The detective team carried out a drug bust at the downtown club
• There was a major bust of the gang last night

Use when referring to a surprise attack, often by a small group, usually for military purposes or unauthorized activity. It can also imply a swift and unexpected entry, often by law enforcement.

• The soldiers planned a raid on the enemy camp.
• The police carried out a raid on the suspect's house at dawn.

Describes the violent and forceful taking of property, especially during war or conflict. It has a negative connotation and often suggests significant destruction.

• The invaders plundered the village, leaving destruction in their wake.
• Pirates plundered many ships in the Caribbean Sea.

Used when talking about stealing goods, typically during a war, riot, or after a disaster. It often carries a connotation of chaos and lawlessness.

• The looters took advantage of the blackout to steal from the stores.
• During the protests, several businesses were looted.

Used to describe causing severe and extensive damage or destruction. It implies violence and thorough devastation, often used in the context of wars, natural disasters, or diseases.

• The hurricane ravaged the coastal towns, leaving thousands homeless.
• The war ravaged the entire region, leading to a humanitarian crisis.