antiwar

antiwar

A group of people hold an antiwar sign at a peaceful rally.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Opposed to war: "antiwar" describes a person, group, policy, or sentiment that actively opposes war as a means of resolving conflict or achieving political goals. It typically refers to a stance against military aggression, armed conflict, or the use of force.
Usage Examples
  • Adjective:
    • The protest was part of a large antiwar movement during the 1960s. (A movement opposed to the Vietnam War.)
    • She wrote an antiwar poem that criticized the destruction caused by battle. (A poem expressing opposition to war.)
    • Many antiwar activists called for diplomatic solutions instead of military intervention. (Activists who advocate against war.)
Advanced Usage

  • "antiwar sentiment": a widespread feeling of opposition to a specific war or to war in general.

    • The antiwar sentiment grew stronger as casualties increased. (Public opposition to the war intensified.)

  • "antiwar protest": a public demonstration against war.

    • Thousands gathered for an antiwar protest in the capital. (A demonstration opposing military action.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Antiwarlike (adj): having a character opposed to war; peaceful.

    • The treaty promoted an antiwarlike stance among the nations. (A stance that discourages war.)

  • Antimilitarist (n): a person who opposes military values and armed forces.

    • He was a known antimilitarist who wrote about the horrors of war. (An opponent of militarism.)
Synonyms
  • Pacifist: a person who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable.
    • She is a committed pacifist who refuses to support any armed conflict. (A person opposed to all war.)
  • Peace-loving: having a strong desire for peace and opposition to conflict.
    • The peace-loving nation sought to avoid war at all costs. (A nation that values peace over war.)
Related Idioms

  • Beat swords into ploughshares: to convert military resources into peaceful, productive uses.

    • After the war, the country decided to beat swords into ploughshares and rebuild its economy. (To transform weapons into tools for peace.)

  • Make love, not war: a slogan advocating peace and non-violence over conflict.

    • The protesters chanted, "Make love, not war" during the antiwar rally. (An expression of opposition to war in favour of peace.)