stand-down

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Word: Stand-down

Part of Speech: Noun

Basic Definition: In a military context, "stand-down" refers to a temporary pause or halt in military action or readiness. It can mean that soldiers or military personnel are allowed to relax and are not on alert anymore.

Usage Instructions:

• "Stand-down" is used when discussing military operations or readiness.
• It can also be used in a more general sense to refer to a break or pause in any stressful situation, not just in military contexts.

Example:

• "After weeks of heightened tension, the general ordered a stand-down, allowing the troops to take some much-needed rest."

Advanced Usage:

In a broader context, "stand-down" can refer to any situation where a person or group is instructed to stop their current actions or to relax from a state of high alert. For example, in a workplace, a manager might call for a "stand-down" meeting to address employee stress and to encourage a break from intense work.

Word Variants:

• Stand down (verb phrase): This means to step back from a position or to stop being ready for action. For example, "The officer was told to stand down after the situation was resolved."

Different Meanings:

While "stand-down" primarily refers to military contexts, it can also imply a pause in other areas, such as: - In business: A temporary halt in operations due to overwork or stress. - In personal life: Taking a break from a busy schedule to relax.

Synonyms:

• Cease-fire: A temporary suspension of fighting.
• Break: A pause or rest from activity.
• Respite: A short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Stand down from: This phrase means to withdraw from a position or role, often used when someone is stepping back from responsibilities. For example, "He decided to stand down from his leadership role to focus on his health."
• Stand up for: Although different in meaning, this phrase means to defend or support a person or cause.

Summary:

"Stand-down" indicates a break or pause, primarily in military contexts but applicable in various situations involving stress or high alert.

Academic

Noun

1. (military) a temporary stop of offensive military action
2. a suspension and relaxation from an alert state or a state of readiness

Synonyms

• standdown