Troops Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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troops

[truːps ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military

A group of soldiers, especially one that is part of an army.

Synonyms

forces, military personnel, soldiers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
troops

A general term often used to refer to a group of soldiers or military personnel collectively. It has a neutral connotation and is commonly used in media and official communications.

  • The troops were deployed to the conflict zone
  • The commander addressed the troops before the mission
soldiers

Specifically refers to individuals serving in an army, particularly in ground combat roles. It can evoke a more personalized or closer connection to the individuals in the military.

  • The soldiers prepared for the incoming battle
  • A group of soldiers received medals for their bravery
military personnel

A formal and inclusive term that refers to all individuals serving in the military, including both combat and non-combat roles.

  • Military personnel must undergo rigorous training
  • The base houses thousands of military personnel
forces

A broader term that can refer to different branches or units of the military. It can also include air forces, naval forces, and special forces.

  • The armed forces were mobilized for the emergency
  • He served in the special forces for over a decade

Examples of usage

  • The troops were deployed to the border for security purposes.
  • The commander led the troops into battle.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A large group of people or things.

Synonyms

band, group, team.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
troops

Typically used in a military context to refer to soldiers or military personnel. It can also be used more informally to describe a large group of people.

  • The troops were deployed to the conflict zone.
  • The scout leader rallied the troops for the hike.
group

A general term for a collection of individuals or things that are together for any purpose. This can be used in various contexts including social, work, or academic settings.

  • A group of friends went to the movies.
  • She joined a study group to prepare for exams.
band

Commonly used to describe a group of musicians who play together. It can also refer to a group of people who share a common purpose or activity.

  • The band played their latest hit at the concert.
  • A band of volunteers cleaned the park.
team

Usually refers to a group of people working together towards a common goal, often in a professional, sporting, or academic context. It carries a connotation of cooperation and unity.

  • The basketball team won the championship.
  • Our project team is working on a new marketing strategy.

Examples of usage

  • A troop of actors performed on stage.
  • A troop of monkeys was swinging from tree to tree.

Translations

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

Origin of 'troops'

The word 'troops' originated from the Middle French word 'trouppe', which referred to a company or troop of performers. Over time, its usage expanded to include military forces. The term has been commonly used in military contexts since the 16th century.


See also: paratrooper, paratroopers, troop, trooper.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,738, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.