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Ceasefire

UK //ˈsiːsfaɪə// US //ˈsiːsfaɪər// Pronunciation

Definition

An agreement between opposing forces to stop fighting temporarily or permanently.

Listen to definition

In simple words: An agreement to stop fighting in a war or conflict.

Examples

• The two sides agreed to a ceasefire to allow for humanitarian aid.
• A ceasefire was declared after years of conflict.
• Negotiations led to a fragile ceasefire that both parties hoped to maintain.
• The ceasefire resulted in a reduction of hostilities in the region.
• The UN monitored the ceasefire to ensure compliance from both sides.

Usage notes

Used in discussions about war and peace. Appropriate in both written and spoken contexts, especially in news articles or diplomatic talks.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'cease' as 'stop' and 'fire' as 'armed conflict' - it’s stopping the shooting.

Collocations

• declare a ceasefire
• negotiated ceasefire
• temporary ceasefire
• lasting ceasefire
• ceasefire agreement

Synonyms

• truce
• armistice
• peace treaty
• cessation
• halt

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'fire cease', which is not correct.
• Using 'ceasefire' as a verb; it's always a noun.
• Omitting 'a' or 'the' when referring to a specific ceasefire.