Cool MateHumanitarian
UK /["/hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən/"]/US /["/hjuːˌmænɪˈteriən/"]/
Definition
connected with helping people who are suffering and improving the conditions that they are living in
In simple words: Someone who helps people in need.
Examples
- to provide **humanitarian aid** to the war zone
- humanitarian issues
- a humanitarian organization
- They are calling for the release of the hostages on **humanitarian grounds**.
- a **humanitarian crisis**
- These floods are the worst humanitarian disaster the country has seen.
- The expulsion of thousands of people represents a humanitarian catastrophe of enormous proportions.
Usage notes
Used to describe actions that aid others, often in crises. More formal contexts are suitable, like in reports or discussions about aid work.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of 'human' and 'caring' – a humanitarian is someone who cares for humans.
Collocations
- be
- purely
- essentially
Synonyms
- philanthropist
- altruist
- benefactor
- social worker
- volunteer
Antonyms
- inhuman
- cruelty
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'humanitarianism' which is the philosophy behind the action.
- Using it to describe personal attributes rather than actions.
- Overusing in casual contexts, where simpler terms might fit better.