C1verb5K

Mobilize

UK /["/ˈməʊbəlaɪz/","/ˈməʊbəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈməʊbəlaɪzd/","/ˈməʊbəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈməʊbəlaɪz/","/ˈməʊbəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈməʊbəlaɪzd/","/ˈməʊbəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to work together in order to achieve a particular aim; to organize a group of people to do this

In simple words: To prepare and organize people for action

Examples

The unions mobilized thousands of workers in a protest against the cuts.
They successfully mobilized public opinion against him.
They were unable to mobilize the resources they needed.
The troops were ordered to mobilize.
The military is able to mobilize rapidly.

Usage notes

Use 'mobilize' in contexts where people or resources are being organized for a specific purpose, such as in emergencies or campaigns. It is less commonly used in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

mobilize + object

Memory hint

Think of 'mobile' — to mobilize is to get people moving or acting together.

Collocations

effectively
successfully
quickly
be able to
can be mobilized
against
for
effectively
successfully
quickly
be able to
can be mobilized
against
for
effectively
successfully
quickly
be able to
can be mobilized
against
for

Synonyms

rally

Antonyms

demobilize
disband

Common mistakes

Using 'mobilize' as a synonym for 'move' instead of its specific meaning of organizing or preparing.
Confusing 'mobilize' with 'mobilization,' forgetting it's a verb.
Incorrectly using 'mobilize' without an object.