noun

ceasefire

/ˈsiːsˌfaɪər/ · say it: SEES·fyr

an agreement to stop fighting, at least for a while

In From the Front Page

In more detail

1. (noun) an agreement to stop fighting or a pause in fighting between two groups in a war or conflict

Examples

The two countries agreed to a ceasefire after weeks of intense battles.

How to use ceasefire

A ceasefire is a temporary cessation of fighting, typically formalized through agreement, though it does not necessarily mean peace or the end of conflict. It is commonly used in diplomatic and military contexts to describe both the agreement itself and the period during which it is in effect. Ceasefire is often the first step toward peace negotiations.

Common phrases

ceasefire agreement
ceasefire negotiations
ceasefire breaks down
call for a ceasefire
hold a ceasefire

Synonyms

truce · armistice · peace · halt · pause

Opposites

conflict · hostilities · war

Word family

cease (verb) · ceaselessly (adverb)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use ceasefire interchangeably with 'peace treaty' or 'peace agreement,' but a ceasefire is specifically an agreement to stop fighting and may be brief or temporary, whereas a peace treaty is a more formal, usually permanent settlement.

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