Question

Does the term "army" have other meanings apart from the conventional one? 🤔

2023-06-26

This is what goPenpal answered

Certainly, the term "army" is not solely confined to its conventional definition. Although we typically understand an "army" as a large group of soldiers, it also serves as a metaphor in various contexts.

Let's dig deeper. Imagine a swarm of ants working collectively to gather food - such a group is often referred to as an "army of ants". On the stage of a Broadway show, a coordinated team of dancers might be called an "army of dancers". These scenarios reveal how the term can refer to any large, organized group with a common goal.

Even in context of an individual, considering the battle inside our bodies, the white blood cells that defend us against diseases can be considered an "army". This illustrates how the metaphor extends itself to intangible contexts as well.

In short, "army" has a flexible usage that goes beyond the military. It's a striking example of how language allows us to stretch meaning and craft images in the reader or listener’s mind, vividly conveying the magnitude and might of a collective group.

Questions or feedback?

Contact us with any questions, concerns or feedback you have.