formal 10K+

Insurgency

UK //ɪnˈsɜːdʒənsi// US //ɪnˈsɜrdʒənsi// Pronunciation

Definition

An organized movement aimed at overthrowing a government or authority, often through violence.

Listen to definition

In simple words: An uprising against authority, often in a violent way.

Examples

• The country faced a serious insurgency that challenged the established government.
• The military was deployed to combat the growing insurgency in the region.
• Insurgency groups often recruit from marginalized communities.
• Analysts studied the factors that contributed to the insurgency's success.
• The insurgency led to significant political changes in the nation.

Usage notes

Used in discussions about politics or military. Not typically used in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

insurgency + object

Memory hint

Think of 'in-surge' - like a wave rising against something.

Collocations

• armed insurgency
• local insurgency
• counterinsurgency tactics
• insurgency movements
• political insurgency

Synonyms

• rebellion
• insurrection
• uprising
• revolt
• subversion

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'rebellion,' which has a similar but broader meaning.
• Sometimes used incorrectly to describe peaceful protests.
• Misused as a general term for any disagreement.