act of war

An "act of war" involves aggressive actions that can lead to hostilities between nations or groups, often justifying a military response.

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Definition

C1International Relations

(formal)An aggressive action by one nation against another that justifies the initiation of hostilities.

Example

  • The cyber attack was deemed an act of war by the international community.
  • Economic sanctions can sometimes be perceived as an act of war.

B2Military

(technical, formal)An operation by military forces as part of a conflict.

Example

  • The bombing of the military base was considered an act of war.
  • Deploying troops to foreign soil without permission can be seen as an act of war.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "act of war":

declare warat wargo to warwar gamearmed responsewar zonewar of nerves