B2adjective1K

Military

UK /["/ˈmɪlətri/"]/US /["/ˈmɪləteri/"]/

Definition

connected with soldiers or the armed forces

In simple words: Related to soldiers or armed forces.

Examples

We may have to take **military action**.
military training/intelligence
The authorities controlled the people through **military force**.
In 1289 he took part in **military operations** against Arezzo and Pisa.
military uniform/service/personnel
a military coup
He was a superb military commander.
Thousands were killed by military forces throughout the world.
He was prevented from performing military service by a health condition.

Usage notes

Used to describe aspects of armed forces and defense. Avoid in casual conversations unrelated to defense or warfare.

Grammar pattern

military + noun (e.g. military forces)

Memory hint

Think of 'military' as 'militas' — imagine soldiers in uniform marching together.

Collocations

military service
military personnel
military strategy
military base
military conflict

Synonyms

armed forces
army
navy
air force
defense

Antonyms

civilian
non-combatant

Common mistakes

Confusing 'military' with 'militant' which refers to activist groups.
Using 'military' as a verb instead of as an adjective.
Mixing up 'military' with 'civilian' when discussing non-combat roles.