Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
collateral damage
noun
/kəˈlæt.ər.əl ˈdæm.ɪdʒ/
Definition
In military and warfare contexts, collateral damage refers to unintended damage to people or things that occur as a result of a military action.
Examples
- The airstrike caused significant collateral damage, affecting nearby homes and civilians.
- Efforts to minimize collateral damage are crucial in modern warfare.
- The report documented several instances of collateral damage during the conflict.
Meaning
The term highlights the unintended casualties or destruction that happen during an operation, often affecting civilians or non-combatants.
Synonyms
- Unintended damage
- Incidental damage
- Secondary damage
