C1nounformal3K

Assassination

UK /["/əˌsæsɪˈneɪʃn/"]/US /["/əˌsæsɪˈneɪʃn/"]/

Definition

the murder of an important or famous person, especially for political reasons

In simple words: The act of killing a person, especially a political leader.

Examples

The president survived a number of assassination attempts.
the assassination of John F. Kennedy

Usage notes

Used in serious contexts, especially relating to politics or history. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

assassination + of + person

Memory hint

Sounds like 'a-sass-in-ation' — picture a sneaky assassin in action.

Collocations

political assassination
assassination attempt
failed assassination
famous assassination
assassination plot

Synonyms

murder
killing
hit
execution
elimination

Antonyms

protection
safeguarding

Common mistakes

Confused with 'murder', which is more general.
Incorrectly using 'assassinate' instead of 'assassination' as a noun.
Using it in informal contexts.