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guerrilla

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ɡəˈrɪlə/

KK: /gəˈrɪlə/

adjective
Definition

Relating to a style of warfare or tactics that involve small groups using unconventional methods to fight against larger forces.


Example

The guerrilla tactics used by the fighters surprised the enemy forces.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that new movie about guerrilla tactics in urban warfare?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was intense! I loved the unconventional strategies they used.
Sloth A
I know, right? The guerrilla approach made it so unpredictable.
Sloth B
Absolutely! It really kept me on the edge of my seat.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
radical
unconventional
aggressive
Antonyms
conventional
moderate
passive
noun
Definition

A person who fights in small groups using surprise attacks to fight against a larger, more organized military force, often in their own country.


Example

The guerrilla fighters used the dense jungle to launch surprise attacks on the enemy troops.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you read that book about the guerrilla tactics used in the war?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was fascinating how they operated in small groups.
Sloth A
I had no idea that guerrilla fighters could be so effective against larger armies.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Guerrilla originates from the Spanish word 'guerra' (meaning war) combined with the diminutive suffix '-illa' (meaning little or small). The term refers to small groups of combatants engaging in irregular warfare, thus conveying the idea of 'little war.'

Memory Tip

Think of 'guerra' meaning war, and the diminutive '-illa' suggesting a smaller scale. This helps you remember that 'guerrilla' refers to small, irregular groups fighting in a war.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

Is this page helpful?
Absolutely! Their strategies were really clever and surprising.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fighter
raider
insurgent
Antonyms
soldier
defender
loyalist