to participate in the war

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to participate in the war" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing involvement in a conflict or military engagement, either in a historical context or in a hypothetical scenario. Example: "Many countries were forced to participate in the war to defend their sovereignty and protect their citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"I have no desire to participate in the war".

The New Yorker

We'll give them a chance to participate in the war against terror by telling us what they know.

The New York Times

This connection had emerged during World War II, when many faculty members and an influx of European emigrés actively sought to participate in the war effort.

Columbia University

A Lamb son and a Rose daughter marry, move back home and become happily middle class; he becomes a policeman to participate in "the war against evil," as he puts it.

The New York Times

An F.B.I. agent testifying in Virginia in an unrelated fraud case against a man who knew Mr. Shibh described the Yemeni as a cleric who told friends in the mid-1990's that he wanted to participate in the war in Bosnia.

The New York Times

The Second International of working-class parties had repeatedly passed resolutions urging the working classes to bring pressure upon their respective governments to prevent war, but, once war had broken out, each individual party chose to regard it as defensive for its own state and to participate in the war effort.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Whether Tony Blair or others "lied" about the Iraqi threat may remain known only to them; more a theological issue than one soluble by Sir John.It is likewise doubtful that there will be further revelations concerning the government's motive, and the related matter of timing that is, when exactly Mr Blair committed Britain to participating in the war.

The Economist

Wizary "Russia needs to participate in the propaganda war.

The New York Times

If Jordan had declined to participate in the 1967 war, there would be continuous Arab control of the West Bank.

The New York Times

Wallace: Yes, some communities in Mississippi decided not to participate in the civil war and abolished slavery to maintain peace with the Union for example.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Ugandan army and military, including members of the family of the president, are known to have cashed in on the country's sending of troops to participate in the civil war of Congo DRC in the 1990s.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "to participate in the war", consider the specific type of involvement you want to convey. Alternatives like "to engage in the conflict" or "to join the war effort" can provide more nuance.

Common error

Avoid using "to participate in the war" when describing specific actions. Instead of saying "he participated in the war by treating wounded soldiers", be more precise: "he contributed to the war effort by treating wounded soldiers".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to participate in the war" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing the purpose or intention behind an action. It describes the act of taking part in a war, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

29%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to participate in the war" is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. Analysis reveals its function as an infinitive phrase expressing the purpose of involvement in a military conflict. The phrase's usage is primarily found in news and media, wikis, and academic sources, reflecting a neutral to formal register. To enhance writing, consider alternatives like "to engage in the conflict" for active involvement or "to join the war effort" for contributing to the overall cause. Avoid overgeneralizing the type of participation, opting for more specific descriptions when detailing particular actions within the war effort.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to engage in the conflict

Focuses on active involvement but uses different vocabulary.

to be involved in the war

Emphasizes a state of being included in the war.

to take part in the war

A common and straightforward alternative.

to join the war effort

Highlights contributing to the overall war activities.

to contribute to the war

Focuses on making a contribution to the war activities.

to enter the war

Implies a transition into a state of war involvement.

to fight in the war

Specifically refers to combat involvement.

to be a participant in the war

Formal and emphasizes the role of being a participant.

to throw oneself into the war

Suggests an eager and intense involvement.

to commit to the war

Highlights dedication and commitment to the war effort.

FAQs

What does "to participate in the war" mean?

The phrase "to participate in the war" means to take part or be involved in a military conflict, either directly through combat or indirectly through supporting activities.

What can I say instead of "to participate in the war"?

You can use alternatives like "to engage in the conflict", "to take part in the war", or "to join the war effort" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "participate in the war" or "participate in the conflict"?

Both "participate in the war" and "participate in the conflict" are correct. "War" refers specifically to armed conflict between nations or groups, while "conflict" is a broader term that can include other types of disputes. The best choice depends on the specific situation you're describing.

How can I use "to participate in the war" in a sentence?

Example: "Many citizens felt compelled "to participate in the war" after the attack on their homeland."