Definition

Noun: A formal agreement between nations possessing nuclear weapons to prohibit the testing of these weapons. This agreement is typically established through a treaty and is intended to curb the arms race and reduce environmental and health risks.

Usage

A "test ban" is a specific type of international arms control agreement. It is used as a singular noun, often preceded by articles like "a" or "the," and can be modified by adjectives (e.g., "comprehensive," "partial").

Examples

• The two superpowers negotiated a test ban to ease global tensions.
• Advocates argue that a comprehensive test ban is essential for non-proliferation.
• The treaty established a test ban on all nuclear explosions.

Advanced Usage

• "Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT)": This is the full name of a specific, landmark international treaty that prohibits all nuclear explosions for both civilian and military purposes. While "CTBT" is a compound proper noun, the core concept is a "test ban."
  • The Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty has been signed by many nations but is not yet in force.

Variants and Related Words

• Test-ban (adjective): Used to describe things related to such an agreement.
  • The test-ban negotiations were lengthy and complex.
• Moratorium: A temporary prohibition, which can be used in a similar context for a voluntary, temporary halt to testing.
  • The country declared a unilateral moratorium on nuclear tests.

Synonyms

• Testing prohibition
• Nuclear test ban (a more specific compound phrase)
• Testing embargo

Related Phrases

• To sign a test ban: To formally agree to the treaty.
  • Several key countries have yet to sign the test ban.
• To violate a test ban: To conduct a nuclear test in defiance of the agreement.
  • The underground explosion was seen as an attempt to violate the test ban.

Noun

1. a ban on the testing of nuclear weapons that is mutually agreed to by countries that possess nuclear weapons