noun · neutral
pacifism
UK/ˈpæsɪfɪz(ə)m/US/ˈpæs·ə·fɪz·əm/PA·ci·fism
the belief in avoiding war and violence as a means of settling disputes
Examples
“His pacifism prevented him from joining the army during the war.”
“Pacifism can influence a country's foreign policy if it becomes widespread.”
“Many conscientious objectors cite pacifism as their reason for refusing service.”
Band 8 sentence
“While pacifism appeals to moral ideals, critics argue it can be impractical when faced with aggressive threats.”
Collocations
- espouse pacifism
- conscientious pacifist
- religious pacifism
Word family
Common mistakes
He is pacifism.→He is a pacifist / He supports pacifism.
They pacifism the country.→They promoted pacifism / They advocated non-violence.
Say it for a higher band
5anti-war→6nonviolence→7+pacifism
Synonyms
nonviolence
anti-war stance
Easily confused
pacifist
“As a pacifist, she refused to carry a weapon.”
Related words
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In -ism
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