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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


pacifist

noun, adjective

Definition: (n.) someone who does not like to argue and who believes that violence should never be an option when settling disputes; (adj.) peaceful and promoting pacifism

Synonyms: (n.) peacemaker, (adj.) passive, nonviolent, neutral, calm, gentle

Antonyms: (n.) fighter, agitator, aggressor, (adj.) aggressive, belligerent

Tips: Think of the related verb pacify, which means "to establish peace and calm." A pacifist believes that disputes can be settled peacefully, without violence. Also, think of the Pacific Ocean, which was named on a very calm, wave-less day. The word pacifist is not widely used as an adjective, but this usage is becoming more acceptable. For a memory trick, note how pacifist sounds like "pass a fist." Now, consider how a pacifist would always pass on using his or her fist and would offer an open hand to resolve a situation. The pacifist motto is "pass a fist, and offer an open hand."

Usage Examples:

Because he was a pacifist, he could not join the war effort. (peacemaker) noun

The country chose to remain pacifist and did not get involved in the disputes of its neighbors. (neutral, nonviolent) adjective

The pacifist man felt that war was wrong, no matter what. (passive, gentle) adjective

As a pacifist, it's difficult for me to stand up for myself because I don't like to argue with others. (peaceful person, non-fighter) noun


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