militant

A militant is a person engaged in warfare or combat. The word is often used as a euphemism for someone who is an entrenched or aggressive adherent to a particular cause, often an ideological faction. The term is most commonly used by mass media to maintain a neutral tone and not appear biased to one side, which has led to criticism. John Simpson writes in a BBC piece that "terrorist" is a loaded word used by people who morally disapprove of militant actions. However, the founding principles of the BBC preclude it from telling readers and listeners who to support and condemn. Even during World War II, Nazis were not referred to as "evil", but as "the enemy". And during The Troubles when attacks occurred at home, there was immense pressure to change usage, but the broadcaster remained firm. ...