Synonyms for

Paramilitary

Verb / ˌperʌˈmɪlʌˌteri: / Another word for paramilitary — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to a group of people who act like an army but are not part of the official military

Synonyms & similar words

paramilitaryorganization paramilitaryforce paramilitaryunit paramilitaryorganisation militant guerrilla insurgent rebel radical extremist terrorist fighter soldier operative mercenary resistance combatant warrior belligerent partisan irregular paramilitaries militia

Synonyms by register

Formal

auxiliary quasi-military militia-like

Informal

vigilante militia posse

Antonyms

civilian noncombatant unarmed peaceful apolitical unorganized

Common collocations

  • paramilitary force
  • paramilitary group
  • paramilitary organization
  • paramilitary units
  • paramilitary wing
  • paramilitary operations
  • paramilitary training

Word family

noun paramilitary
adjective paramilitary

Usage note

Refers to organizations that are similar to a professional military but are not part of the official armed forces. Often carries a negative connotation due to association with irregular warfare or political instability.

Example sentences

  1. The paramilitary group was formed to support the government during the war.
  2. The rebels were defeated by the government's paramilitary forces.
  3. The paramilitary group was accused of committing human rights violations.
  4. The military and paramilitary groups often clash over control of territory.
  5. The government hired a paramilitary contractor to train its army.

Quotes

  • The paramilitary are a bunch of cowards hiding behind masks and guns. - John F. Kennedy
  • The use of paramilitary forces is an indication of the failure of the government to maintain law and order. - Nelson Mandela
  • The paramilitary are not the solution to our problems, they are the problem. - Martin Luther King Jr.

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