Meaning & Definition of word "Nonviolence"
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Nonviolence
/nɒnˈvaɪələns/
noun:
- 1. The practice of avoiding violence, particularly in political or social protest, and advocating for change through peaceful means.
- Example: Gandhi's approach to civil rights was rooted in the principle of nonviolence.
- 2. The state or condition of being nonviolent or the philosophy that promotes abstaining from violent action.
- Example: The movement’s commitment to nonviolence was evident in its peaceful demonstrations.
- 3. A strategy for social change that emphasizes peaceful protest and civil disobedience rather than violent confrontation.
- Example: Nonviolence as a strategy proved effective in achieving legislative reforms.
Etymology
The term nonviolence combines 'non-' meaning 'not' with 'violence,' traceable to Latin 'violentia' meaning 'vehemence, impetuosity.'
Common Phrases and Expressions
satyagraha:
A policy of passive resistance initiated by Mahatma Gandhi as a means of protest.
peaceful protest:
A demonstration where participants seek to make a statement without engaging in violence.
civil disobedience:
The active refusal to obey certain laws as a form of peaceful protest.
Related Words
pacifism:
The belief that war and violence are unjustifiable.
peacekeeping:
The active maintenance of a ceasefire in an inflamed situation.
restorative justice:
An approach to justice focusing on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims.
Slang Meanings of nonviolence
Meaning: peace out
Example Sentence: The activists decided to peace out and hold a nonviolent rally.
Meaning: go gentle
Example Sentence: In a heated debate, she said we should just go gentle to maintain nonviolence.