What is freedom fighter? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of freedom fighter

freedom fighternoun
chiến binh tự do
/ˈfriːdəm faɪtə(r)//ˈfriːdəm faɪtər/

Where does the word freedom fighter come from?

The term "freedom fighter" was coined during the decolonization movement of the 20th century to describe individuals who sought independence for their countries from colonial powers through peaceful or armed resistance. The word "freedom" is self-explanatory, and "fighter" denotes someone who actively engages in a struggle or conflict for a cause, in this case, the cause of independence. The usage of the word "fighter" in this context is a way to honor and highlight the bravery and sacrifices made by people fighting for their freedom, as the struggle undoubtedly involves risk, violence, and hardship. Originally, "freedom fighter" was often used interchangeably with "liberation fighter" or "guerrilla", but the former has become more widely recognized over time, shedding its pejorative connotations as a "terrorist" or "bandit" and being accepted as an appropriate term for those struggling for self-determination and human rights.

Example of vocabulary freedom fighternamespace

Nelson Mandela, the renowned freedom fighter, spent 27 years in captivity fighting against apartheid in South Africa.
Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel laureate and Burmese freedom fighter, spent nearly two decades under house arrest for her advocacy for democracy.
The likes of Che Guevara and Fidel Castro were both revered freedom fighters who led revolutions in Cuba.
Lech Walesa, the Polish freedom fighter and union organizer, spearheaded the Solidarity movement that helped bring about an end to communism in Eastern Europe.
Malcolm X, the former black nationalist and civil rights activist, shifted his focus towards advocating for independence in the 1960s, earning the title of freedom fighter.