a global policeman

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a global policeman" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a country or organization that takes on the role of maintaining international order or enforcing laws on a global scale. Example: "Some critics argue that the United States acts as a global policeman, intervening in conflicts around the world to promote democracy and stability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

How does a global policeman earn legitimacy?

The Economist

We are not a global policeman.

The Guardian

Increasingly, NATO sought to assume the role of a global policeman.

The New York Times

But it was the era of decolonization that turned the United States into a global policeman.

The New York Times - Books

What Fox actually said was: "We are not a global policeman.

The Guardian

The United States has made itself a global policeman concerning human trafficking.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

By the nineteen-seventies, the rest of the world had caught up, and students of international affairs began to predict that, in the absence of a credible global policeman, there would be a surge in the number of armed conflicts around the world.

The New Yorker

It is true that the UN security council is not a reliable global policeman.

The Guardian - Opinion

The world would have an effective global policeman at last.

Forbes

Putin has missed few chances to champion public figures who challenge Western governments and to portray Washington as an overzealous global policeman.

Huffington Post

Unchallenged at sea, Britain adopted the role of global policeman, a state of affairs later known as the Pax Britannica, and a foreign policy of "splendid isolation".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using the phrase to represent a country or organization acting in order to maintain international order or to enforce laws on a global scale.

Common error

Avoid using "a global policeman" to describe actions that are primarily self-serving or that lack broad international support. Doing so can undermine credibility and provoke criticism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a global policeman" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a metaphor to describe a nation or organization that takes on the role of maintaining international order and security, often through military or political intervention. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a global policeman" is a common metaphor, primarily used in news and media, to describe an entity that takes on the role of maintaining international order. While grammatically correct, as noted by Ludwig AI, it carries connotations of interventionism and potential overreach. Alternative phrases include "international peacekeeper" or "world enforcer". When using the phrase, consider the potential for criticism and ensure accuracy in representing the entity's actions. The phrase primarily used in news & media content, so the register can be both neutral and formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

international peacekeeper

This term refers directly to an entity tasked with maintaining peace on a global scale.

world enforcer

This phrase emphasizes the enforcement aspect of maintaining global order.

global security guarantor

This highlights the role of ensuring security worldwide.

international stabilizer

This term suggests a role in maintaining stability in international relations.

global interventionist

This highlights the act of intervening in global affairs, often militarily or politically.

worldwide regulatory body

This focuses on the regulatory aspect of maintaining global order.

global authority

This term suggests a governing power with worldwide influence.

global protector

This phrase emphasizes the act of protecting global interests.

transnational law enforcement

This focuses on enforcing laws across international borders.

international mediator

This phrase highlights the act of mediating international disputes.

FAQs

What does the term "a global policeman" mean?

The term "a global policeman" refers to a country or organization that assumes the role of maintaining international order, often through intervention in conflicts or enforcement of international laws.

What are some alternative phrases to "a global policeman"?

Alternatives include "international peacekeeper", "world enforcer", or "global security guarantor", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it accurate to describe the United Nations as "a global policeman"?

While the UN plays a role in maintaining international peace and security, it is generally not described as "a global policeman" due to its reliance on consensus and its limited enforcement capabilities. Individual nations or alliances are more often described this way.

What are the potential criticisms of a country acting as "a global policeman"?

Criticisms often include accusations of interventionism, neocolonialism, and disregard for national sovereignty. Some argue that such a role can lead to unintended consequences and resentment.