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Martial Law

Definition:

Martial law refers to the temporary rule of a country by military authorities in times of emergency or unrest, usually suspending ordinary law and granting the military significant powers.

Usage and Examples:

Sense 1: Government Control

In this sense, martial law is the imposition of direct military control by the government over civilian functions and population.

• During the unrest, the government declared martial law to regain control over the rebellious regions.
• The military general assumed full authority under martial law.

Sense 2: Emergency Measures

Martial law may involve the imposition of curfews, suspension of civil rights, and the establishment of military tribunals.

• Under martial law, the authorities imposed a curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. to maintain public safety.
• During the period of martial law, several civil rights were temporarily suspended in order to restore stability.

Sense 3: Restricted Freedoms

During martial law, individual rights and freedoms may be limited or revoked for the sake of national security.

• A strict censorship policy was implemented during martial law, limiting freedom of speech and press.
• Martial law led to the temporary suspension of habeas corpus, denying individuals the right to challenge their detention.

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