Definition

1. Noun:
   • A paramilitary organisation is a group of civilians organized and structured like a military force. Its purpose is often to operate instead of, or to provide support to, a regular national army.

Usage

• The term is used to describe organized, armed groups that are not part of the official state military forces but adopt military-style ranks, training, and discipline.
• It often carries a neutral descriptive meaning but can have negative connotations depending on the group's activities and legal status.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The government accused the rebel faction of being a dangerous paramilitary organisation.
  • Some paramilitary organisations were formed to provide security in areas where the national army was stretched thin.

Advanced Usage

• "To be branded a paramilitary organisation": To be officially labeled or described as such, often by a government or international body.
  • The group was branded a paramilitary organisation by the United Nations.

Variants and Related Words

• Paramilitary (adjective): Of, relating to, or being a group of this type.
  • The paramilitary unit conducted its own training exercises.
• Paramilitary force (noun phrase): A synonym for paramilitary organisation.
• Militia (noun): A military force that is raised from the civil population, often similar to but not always synonymous with a paramilitary organisation.

Synonyms

• Irregular forces: Military or combatant groups not part of the regular armed forces.
• Militia: A military force of civilians, particularly for local defense.
• Private army: A armed group organized and funded by a private entity or individual.

Related Phrases

• "To operate as a paramilitary organisation": To function with the structure and tactics of such a group.
  • Evidence suggested the gang had begun to operate as a paramilitary organisation.

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning centers on civilian organization with a military fashion. This distinguishes it from official state armies.
• The purpose can vary widely, including assisting regular troops, replacing them, or pursuing political or ideological goals through force.
• The term does not inherently imply illegality, though many such groups operate outside official state sanction.

Noun

1. a group of civilians organized in a military fashion (especially to operate in place of or to assist regular army troops)