C1noun2K

Combat

UK /["/ˈkɒmbæt/"]/US /["/ˈkɑːmbæt/"]/

Definition

fighting or a fight, especially during a time of war

In simple words: To fight or struggle against something.

Examples

  • The general strategized for the upcoming combat against enemy forces.
  • He engaged in hand-to-hand combat during the training exercise to improve his skills.
  • The movie depicts an intense aerial combat scene that leaves the audience on the edge of their seats.
  • In an attempt to combat poverty, the organization launched several new initiatives.
  • She decided to combat her fears by facing them head-on during the public speaking event.

Usage notes

Commonly used in military or competitive contexts. Avoid using in casual conversation where a less aggressive term would be appropriate, like 'deal with' instead of 'combat'.

Grammar pattern

combat + object

Memory hint

Think of 'combat' as 'combat'ting enemies. Imagine soldiers training in a field.

Collocations

  • fierce
  • intense
  • mortal
  • be engaged in
  • be locked in
  • engage in
  • mission
  • operation
  • zone
  • in combat
  • in combat with
  • combat against

Synonyms

  • fight
  • battle
  • struggle
  • confront
  • contend

Antonyms

  • surrender
  • relinquish
  • yield

Common mistakes

  • Using 'combat' as a noun instead of only a verb.
  • Confusing with 'battle', which is more specific.
  • Mispronouncing as 'com-bat' instead of 'kom-bat'.