C1noun2K

Riot

UK /["/ˈraɪət/"]/US /["/ˈraɪət/"]/

Definition

a situation in which a group of people behave in a violent way in a public place, often as a protest

In simple words: A violent public disturbance where a large group of people act aggressively.

Examples

  • The police struggled to control the riot that broke out downtown after the protest.
  • A riot of colors filled the sky during the fireworks display.
  • The factory workers staged a riot to demand better pay and working conditions.
  • The garden was a riot of blooming flowers that attracted many bees and butterflies.
  • After the controversial verdict, a riot erupted outside the courthouse.

Usage notes

Use 'riot' when referring to chaotic gatherings that become violent. It can describe protests that escalate. Avoid in formal contexts where a softer term is needed, such as 'demonstration'.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'riot' as 'wreaking havoc on the street' to remember its chaotic nature.

Collocations

  • major
  • serious
  • full-scale
  • cause
  • incite
  • instigate
  • begin
  • break out
  • erupt
  • cop
  • police
  • squad
  • during a/​the riot
  • in a/​the riot
  • riot against
  • run riot

Synonyms

  • rampage

Antonyms

  • peace
  • order
  • calm

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'riot' with 'rebellion' — 'riot' refers to chaos, while 'rebellion' can be organized.
  • Using 'riot' as a verb mistakenly — it only functions as a noun.
  • Confusing with 'riotous' — the latter refers to something noisy or disorderly, not just violent.