nuclear deterrence

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Explanation of "Nuclear Deterrence"

Definition: "Nuclear deterrence" is a military strategy that means a country will not use nuclear weapons against another country if it knows that the other country can also retaliate with nuclear weapons. The idea is that the threat of mutual destruction will prevent nations from starting a nuclear war.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced discussions, "nuclear deterrence" might be analyzed in terms of its effectiveness, ethical implications, or historical impact. You might hear phrases like "strategic stability" or "arms race" associated with this term.

Word Variants:

• Nuclear (adjective): relating to the nucleus of an atom or to nuclear weapons.
• Deterrence (noun): the action of discouraging an action or event through instilling doubt or fear of the consequences.

Different Meanings:

While "nuclear deterrence" specifically refers to military strategy, the words "nuclear" and "deterrence" can have other meanings outside of this context: - Nuclear: can refer to anything related to the nucleus of an atom or energy produced from nuclear reactions. - Deterrence: can mean any strategy used to prevent undesirable actions, not just in military contexts.

Synonyms:

• Mutual Assured Destruction (MAD): This term is often used interchangeably with "nuclear deterrence" to describe the situation where both sides have enough nuclear weapons to destroy each other.
• Preventive strategy: A broader term that can apply to various contexts beyond nuclear weapons.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "nuclear deterrence," you might encounter phrases related to broader concepts of deterrence, such as: - "Play with fire": To take risks that could lead to dangerous situations, which can relate to the idea of nuclear threats. - "Cross the line": To go too far or to do something unacceptable, which can be relevant in discussions about nuclear engagement.

Summary:

"Nuclear deterrence" is an important concept in international relations that helps prevent nuclear war by making sure that any attack would lead to mutual destruction.

Academic

Noun

1. the military doctrine that an enemy will be deterred from using nuclear weapons as long as he can be destroyed as a consequence
   • when two nations both resort to nuclear deterrence the consequence could be mutual destruction