take arms
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb: - To begin fighting or engaging in armed conflict; to start a war or battle. This phrase describes the act of picking up weapons and initiating hostilities.
Usage
This is a formal and somewhat literary verb phrase, often used in historical, political, or journalistic contexts to describe the start of a war or rebellion. It implies a deliberate, organized move from a state of peace or tension to one of open warfare. - The rebels decided to take arms against the oppressive government. - The king's unjust decree forced the neighboring provinces to take arms.
Examples
- The colonists were left with no choice but to take arms to secure their independence.
- When diplomacy fails, nations sometimes feel compelled to take arms.
Advanced Usage
- "To take up arms": This is a more common variant with identical meaning. The inclusion of "up" emphasizes the physical action of lifting or assuming weapons.
- The citizens were called to take up arms in defense of their city.
Variants and Related Words
- Take up arms (verb phrase): The most frequent variant, synonymous with "take arms."
- Armed (adjective): Equipped with weapons.
- Armament (noun): Military weapons and equipment.
Synonyms
- Go to war
- Rebel
- Revolt
- Rise up
Related Idioms
- "Take up the sword": A more metaphorical idiom with a similar meaning of beginning to fight.
- They were peaceful people, but injustice forced them to take up the sword.