police action

noun

1. a relatively localized military action undertaken by regular armed forces, without a formal declaration of war, against guerrillas, insurgents, or other forces held to be violating international peace and order.

Word History and Origins

Origin of police action¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

"I'm particularly shocked by fact that we’ve had one of largest police actions and we were not able to control or prevent this violence."

From BBC

Some of his victims came forward to complain about Cox's behaviour after hearing or reading about police action against him on the radio and in local newspapers.

From BBC

She has backed an updated police action plan which will see violence against women and girls given the same priority as dealing with terrorism.

From BBC

Looking back, Mr Bromley said although he was disappointed no further police action was currently possible, he felt "some good came from this".

From BBC

Faculty members outraged by the police actions held votes to censure and express no confidence in then-Chancellor Gene Block, which failed.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• intervention
• military action