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police

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /pəˈliːs/

KK: /pəˈlis/

noun
Definition

A group of people who are trained to enforce laws, keep the peace, and ensure safety in a community.


Example

The police arrived quickly to handle the situation.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the police chase downtown yesterday?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was all over the news!
Sloth A
I wonder what led to that situation with the police.
Sloth B
I guess we'll find out more details soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
force
department
constabulary
Antonyms
criminals
anarchists
offenders
transitive verb
Definition

To control or maintain order in a place, often by enforcing laws or rules, similar to the work done by law enforcement agencies.


Example

The officers were called to police the event and ensure everyone's safety.


Tense Forms

Past: policed

Past Participle: policed


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the new team that will police the local parks?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard they want to keep things safe for everyone.
Sloth A
That's a good idea; it should help maintain order.
Root Explanation

**Police** → It is derived from the French word *police* (meaning public order or administration), which in turn comes from the Latin *politia* (meaning citizenship or government), from the Greek *polis* (meaning city). The word 'police' refers to the organization responsible for maintaining public order and safety in a city or community.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word 'polis' meaning city, and remember that 'police' is the organization that helps keep order in the city.

Visually Confused Words
poultice
splice
plaice
unpoliced
prolicide
prepolice
potlicker
pollicate
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
Definitely! I hope they can really make a difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
regulate
control
supervise
Antonyms
neglect
disorder
ignore