cessation of hostilities

USAGE SUMMARY

"cessation of hostilities" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to a formal ending or suspension of conflicts or aggressive actions between nations, groups, or individuals. You can use it when discussing wars, battles, or any type of conflict resolution. Example: The two countries finally agreed to a cessation of hostilities after months of negotiations, bringing an end to the long-standing territorial dispute.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The cessation of hostilities lasted barely a week.

The Guardian - Opinion

"In principle, they agreed to a cessation of hostilities".

The New York Times

The cessation of hostilities in Syria has broken down completely.

The New Yorker

He dismissed calls for a cessation of hostilities.

The Guardian

A cessation of hostilities will be impossible to sustain without a political process, he added.

The Guardian

The concept of a cessation of hostilities allows for continuing strikes against terrorist groups.

The Guardian - Opinion

"First, we call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and violence".

The Guardian

But even in 1944, thoughts had turned to the cessation of hostilities.

The Guardian

"I reiterate my appeal for an immediate cessation of hostilities at the site.

The Guardian

"If you are violating the cessation of hostilities agreement you agreed to what is your strategy?

The Guardian

Prince Saud said Mr Bush personally expressed "his anxiety to see the cessation of hostilities".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about ongoing conflicts, clearly define which parties have agreed to the "cessation of hostilities" and whether it is holding.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "cessation of hostilities" automatically leads to a lasting peace. It is often a temporary measure and requires further negotiations to solidify into a long-term resolution. Make sure you are aware of the differences between the "ceasefire" and a peace treaty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cessation of hostilities" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the act or state of stopping or suspending warfare or conflict. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

12%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cessation of hostilities" is a grammatically correct and commonly used term that refers to the formal ending or suspension of conflicts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is frequently found in news reports, encyclopedias, and formal discussions. When using this phrase, remember that it implies a pause or end to fighting, not necessarily a permanent peace. For situations where less formality is needed, consider alternatives such as "ceasefire" or "truce". While the phrase is frequently associated with violence and conflicts, be careful about the duration and conditions, because it's not always successful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Ceasefire agreement

Emphasizes the agreement aspect of stopping the fighting.

Armistice

Formal agreement to stop fighting, often a precursor to a peace treaty.

Suspension of armed conflict

More formal and specific, highlighting the armed nature of the conflict.

Termination of fighting

Focuses on the act of fighting being stopped.

End of conflict

Focuses on the termination of a conflict, rather than just a pause in fighting.

Ending of war

Broader term implying the conclusion of a war, not just a temporary halt.

Truce

A simpler, more general term for a temporary suspension of fighting.

Peace accord

Highlights the movement towards peace and agreement.

De-escalation of conflict

Implies a reduction in intensity of the conflict, leading to a pause.

Resolution of conflict

Focuses on a more permanent solution rather than a temporary cessation.

FAQs

How is "cessation of hostilities" typically used in a sentence?

Typically, "cessation of hostilities" is used to describe an agreement or declaration that stops or pauses fighting, often as part of a larger peace process. For example: "The agreement called for an immediate cessation of hostilities".

What's a simpler way to say "cessation of hostilities"?

Simpler alternatives include "ceasefire", "truce", or "end of fighting". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

What's the difference between a "cessation of hostilities" and a peace treaty?

A "cessation of hostilities" is a temporary pause or end to fighting, while a peace treaty is a formal agreement that officially ends a state of war and establishes lasting peace.

Is a "cessation of hostilities" always successful?

No, a "cessation of hostilities" is not always successful. It can be fragile and may break down if the underlying issues are not addressed or if one or more parties violate the agreement. The phrase usually denotes that it's an agreement, the fact that it has to hold depends on more factors, and is not a inherent property of it. It often precedes formal peace talks.