terrorists

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "terrorists" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is used to refer to people who use physical or psychological violence and intimidation to achieve political goals. For example: "The terrorists are believed to have acquired weapons that could be used to create an international incident."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'm for looking at all of the terrorists' records – I just want their name on the warrant and I just want it to be signed by a judge just like the constitution says".

The Guardian

Moscow has pushed to have pro-Russia rebels included in national unity talks, but Ukrainian leaders say they will not negotiate with "terrorists".

The Guardian

You force money transfers underground where they are more likely to be captured by terrorists.

The Guardian - Opinion

In an interview with broadcasters, she suggested that Miranda was stopped because he had secret information that could help terrorists.

The Guardian

The legitimacy of legislation used to deter terrorists depends, like all law, on popular consent.

The Guardian

The state news channel Syria TV quoted a government official as saying two improvised explosives planted by "terrorists" blew up near the "Sons of Martyrs" school in Damascus.

The Guardian

Either outcome would afford terrorists an ideal sanctuary, a greater danger than Awlaki even at his most malign, especially for the pro-western monarchies elsewhere on the Arabian Peninsula.

The Guardian - Opinion

I grew up in the UK and didn't know what Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams' voice sounded like until 1994 because Margaret Thatcher decided that a voice ban, imposed in 1988, would "deny terrorists the oxygen of publicity".

The Guardian - Opinion

Avoid debate of key British foreign policy issues that might be exploited by terrorists: farewell to defending international law enshrining the right to resist colonialism and foreign military occupation.

The Guardian - Opinion

The three journalists were arrested in their hotel rooms on 29 December and accused of spreading misinformation about Egypt and aiding terrorists – charges they describe as absurd.

The Guardian

Her research on terrorism and its causes culminated in her acclaimed 2006 book What Terrorists Want, described by the New York Times as an "essential primer on terrorism and how to tackle it".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the term "terrorists", ensure that the context clearly defines who is being referred to, as the term itself can be politically charged. Provide specific details about their actions or affiliations to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "terrorists" as a blanket term for all groups engaged in violence. Different groups have different motivations and methods; using the term indiscriminately can lead to misunderstandings and misrepresentations.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "terrorists" is as a plural noun. It refers to a group of individuals who engage in acts of terrorism. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage in this context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "terrorists" functions as a plural noun, identifying individuals who employ violence and intimidation for political aims. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and commonly used, particularly in news and media. While its use is generally neutral, context is crucial, as it can carry strong negative connotations. For alternative phrasing, consider "extremist groups" or "militant organizations" to provide greater neutrality or specificity. Overgeneralization should be avoided to prevent misrepresentation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Extremist groups

Focuses on the ideological aspect of the group, highlighting their extreme beliefs.

Militant organizations

Emphasizes the organized and often armed nature of the group.

Insurgent forces

Highlights their role in rebellion or uprising against an established authority.

Radical factions

Emphasizes the factional and potentially revolutionary nature of the group.

Subversive elements

Focuses on their intent to undermine or overthrow the established order.

Violent non-state actors

A more academic and neutral term focusing on their violence and lack of governmental affiliation.

Armed combatants

Highlights their involvement in armed conflict.

Guerrilla fighters

Specific to groups engaged in guerrilla warfare.

Revolutionaries

Highlights the potential for a large, systemic change.

Criminal organizations

Focuses on the organized illegal activities

FAQs

How is the term "terrorists" typically used in news reporting?

In news, "terrorists" is used to describe groups or individuals who use violence and intimidation to achieve political aims, often in ways that target civilians. However, the use of the term can be controversial, as it carries strong negative connotations.

What are some less politically charged alternatives to "terrorists"?

Depending on the context, you could use terms like "extremist groups", "militant organizations", or "insurgent forces". These alternatives might be more appropriate in situations where neutrality is important.

Is there a legal definition of "terrorists"?

Yes, many countries have legal definitions of "terrorists" and terrorism, which are used to prosecute individuals and groups. These definitions typically involve acts of violence intended to cause fear and achieve political goals.

What is the difference between "terrorists" and "freedom fighters"?

The distinction between "terrorists" and "freedom fighters" is often subjective and depends on one's perspective. Actions considered terrorism by one group may be seen as legitimate resistance by another, especially when fighting against oppressive regimes.