have experienced combat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have experienced combat" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's past involvement in military conflict or warfare. Example: "Veterans often share their stories about the challenges they faced after they have experienced combat."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"From the talks we've been given by people who have experienced combat, I would say that probably when you're in combat, you're not thinking about something that can happen to you but you're looking out for your buddy".

The New York Times

We need to remember that the U.S. has sent its forces into violent conflicts every year since World War II, except one, so Iraq and Afghanistan are not the only ways a soldier may have experienced combat.

HuffPost

This overlap seems to be most understood in individuals who have experienced combat or military sexual trauma.

Alcohol research : current reviews

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

I believed this while reading articles about how women had experienced combat as part of counterinsurgency efforts, and therefore deserved to join infantry or Marine infantry units.

The New York Times

His unit will fulfill them, he has no doubt, though he did admit to a little nervousness, never having experienced combat.

The New York Times

He told his family he hoped in time to catch up with his brother in Europe: Pershing had experienced combat and survived, and now it was his turn.

The New York Times - Sports

Despite Freud's influential adoption and then rejection of hypnosis, some use was made of the technique in the psychoanalytic treatment of soldiers who had experienced combat neuroses during World Wars I and II.

Britannica

I agree with the concept, but having experienced combat, when the bullets start flying, I only want to serve with those who are qualified, and more importantly, have the desire to be there.

Huffington Post

Lacking effective leadership and terrified at the superior numbers of the enemy, with their spirit broken, and likely not having experienced combat before, they abandoned their wounded, and fled to the safety of the approaching grenadier companies coming from the town center, isolating Captain Parsons and the companies searching for arms at Barrett's Farm.

Wikipedia

Mullaney said that he was fortunate to find that writing his book was therapeutic for him, adding, "If a soldier has experienced combat stress -- and many of us have in varying degrees -- you have to get the assistance you need to get back on your feet".

Huffington Post

14 Further, their results suggested that higher levels of mental health disorders, especially PTSD, were present among those who had experienced combat during deployment, and reservists.

British Journal of Ophthalmology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about veterans or military personnel, use "have experienced combat" to respectfully acknowledge their direct involvement in warfare, emphasizing their personal exposure to its realities.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all military personnel "have experienced combat". Many serve in support roles or peacekeeping missions without direct exposure to hostilities. Be specific and accurate in your descriptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have experienced combat" functions as a verb phrase indicating that someone has directly encountered and undergone the realities of warfare. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing soldiers, veterans, and military personnel.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

25%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "have experienced combat" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase to describe individuals who have been directly involved in warfare. As Ludwig AI points out, it is mostly used in news and media, as well as in scientific contexts, denoting a neutral but informative register. While direct and to the point, it's important to remember that not all military personnel are directly exposed to danger or battle and that the term must be used accurately and respectfully.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have seen action

Focuses on the act of participating in military engagements.

have been in battle

Emphasizes direct involvement in a battle or conflict.

have fought in war

Highlights the act of fighting in a war or armed conflict.

have engaged in warfare

A more formal way of saying someone has participated in armed conflict.

have faced combat situations

Focuses on encountering dangerous or hostile scenarios.

have known battle

Suggests a deep, personal understanding of what battle is like.

have undergone military conflict

Highlights the experience of enduring the hardships of military conflict.

have participated in armed conflict

A formal way of stating involvement in armed conflict.

have served in a war zone

Highlights service in an area where war is actively taking place.

have tasted battle

Uses metaphorical language to describe experiencing combat.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "have experienced combat"?

You can use alternatives like "have seen action", "have been in battle", or "have fought in war" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it accurate to assume all veterans "have experienced combat"?

No, it's not accurate. Many veterans serve in various roles, including support, logistics, or peacekeeping, which may not involve direct combat. Using more specific language is crucial.

How does the phrase "have experienced combat" differ from "have served in the military"?

"Have served in the military" is a broader term that encompasses all types of military service, whereas "have experienced combat" specifically refers to those who "have seen action" or been directly involved in hostilities.

What is the best way to respectfully refer to someone who "has experienced combat"?

When referring to someone who "has experienced combat", it's best to use respectful and considerate language that acknowledges their service and potential challenges. Avoid making assumptions about their experiences or mental state.