Definition

Noun: The administration, governance, or command exercised over a region, population, or country by a military force, especially one from a foreign power. It implies the imposition of authority through armed forces, often superseding civilian government.

Usage

This term is used to describe a specific political and administrative condition where ultimate authority is held by military commanders. It is a formal and often critical term used in political, historical, and journalistic contexts.

Examples

• The country was under military control for a decade following the invasion.
• The treaty ended the period of foreign military control.
• Establishing military control over the region was the general's primary objective.

Advanced Usage

• "to exercise military control": To actively govern or command using military authority.
  • The occupying force sought to exercise complete military control over the capital.
• "to impose military control": To establish such governance, often by force.
  • The rebellion led the government to impose military control in the province.

Variants and Related Words

• Martial law (noun): The temporary rule by military authorities, imposed on a civilian population especially in times of war or civil disorder. While related, "martial law" is often declared by a country's own government, whereas "military control" frequently implies external or occupying force control.
• Occupation (noun): The control of a country or region by a foreign military force. This is a broader term; military control is a key aspect of an occupation.
• Governance (noun): The action or manner of governing. Military control is a specific, forceful type of governance.

Synonyms

• Military rule
• Military governance
• Armed occupation (in context)

Antonyms

• Civilian control
• Self-governance
• Autonomy
• Sovereignty

Noun

1. the control of a country by military forces of a foreign power