jihad

A war fought by Muslims for what they believe are religious purposes.

• The leader called for armed jihad.
• The group claimed its military campaign was a jihad.
• Historians examined how rulers used calls for jihad during the war.

How to use it: jihad against someone/something (The group declared jihad against the government.)

Similar words: holy war

Common phrases: declare jihad, wage jihad, armed jihad

In Islam, a personal effort to overcome bad habits and become a better person.

• He described self-discipline as a personal jihad.
• Her inner jihad involved overcoming anger and pride.
• The teacher explained jihad as a daily struggle to live well.

Similar words: spiritual struggle

Common phrases: inner jihad, personal jihad, spiritual jihad

In Islam, a personal effort to become better and resist evil.

• She sees daily kindness as part of her jihad.
• His jihad involves resisting selfish desires.
• They discussed jihad as a path to spiritual growth.

Similar words: spiritual struggle

Common phrases: inner jihad, spiritual jihad

A very determined campaign to promote an idea or fight against something.

• He launched a jihad against office waste.
• Her political jihad attracted fierce criticism.
• They described the campaign as a jihad for reform.

How to use it: jihad against something (The editor waged a jihad against sloppy writing.)

Similar words: crusade

Common phrases: jihad against something, political jihad