nonviolence

noun

Definition of nonviolencenext
as in pacifism

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of nonviolence There is a long history of emphasizing nonviolence and resilience, and for many American Jews, firearms have not been part of their lived experience. — Gayle Pearlstein, The Washington Examiner, 3 Apr. 2026 Organizers say over 1,700 people are committed to nonviolence. — Quinn Clark, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026 However violent Gandhi’s quest for nonviolence becomes, the production evolves into impossible radiance, turning the opera into something resembling a passion play. — Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 21 May 2026 Soka Gakkai members gather to study Buddhist principles, like practicing nonviolence and taking social action, and their practice consists of prayers, chanting and self-reflection in nature to achieve spiritual growth. — Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for nonviolence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for nonviolence
  1. pacifism
  2. pacificism
Noun
  • The postwar disarmament of Germany, the manifesto argues, was an overcorrection that contributed to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, similarly Japan’s commitment to pacifism has outlived its purpose.
    — Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 22 Apr. 2026
  • For decades after the war, Germany’s attempts to atone for that history through a deep commitment to pacifism obliged defense companies to keep a low profile, avoiding sponsorships and splashy ad campaigns.
    — Simon Shuster, The Atlantic, 27 Mar. 2026
Definition of pacifism
Noun
  • Holding fast to pacificism could contribute to a massacre.
    — Carol Quillen, Time, 21 Feb. 2026
Definition of pacificism

Browse Nearby Words

nonviable
nonviolence
nonviolent
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Cite this Entry

“Nonviolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/nonviolence. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on nonviolence

Nglish: Translation of nonviolence for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about nonviolence

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