C1noun 2K

Civilian

UK /["/səˈvɪliən/"]/ US /["/səˈvɪliən/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

a person who is not a member of the armed forces or the police

Listen to definition

In simple words: A person who is not a member of the military or police.

Examples

• Two soldiers and one civilian were killed in the explosion.
• Hundreds of **innocent civilians** have died in the air strikes.
• Further measures are needed to protect civilians.
• The group was accused of targeting civilians.

Usage notes

Use 'civilian' to refer to ordinary people, especially in contrast to military personnel. Avoid using in highly technical or military contexts where specific roles are discussed.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think 'civilians are seen in city life,' like civilians living in a city.

Collocations

• innocent
• unarmed
• ordinary
• attack
• kill
• target

Synonyms

• non-combatant
• ordinary person
• citizen
• private citizen
• bystander

Antonyms

• military
• combatant

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'civil' which relates to citizens or society.
• Incorrectly used as an adjective; it's primarily a noun.