terrorist act

[ˈtɛrərɪst ækt]
nounpl: terrorist acts
ato terrorista
1. A violent action intended to cause fear and intimidation for political, religious, or ideological purposes, typically targeting civilians
The bombing was classified as a terrorist act by the government.
O atentado foi classificado como um ato terrorista pelo governo.
2. An illegal act of violence committed to intimidate or coerce a government or civilian population
Authorities are investigating the terrorist act that occurred downtown.
As autoridades estão investigando o ato terrorista que ocorreu no centro da cidade.
In Brazil and Portugal, 'ato terrorista' is the formal term used in legal, governmental, and media contexts, particularly in reference to international incidents or domestic security threats. In the United States, especially post-9/11, the term gained prominence in national security discourse and legal frameworks, often used to distinguish violent extremist actions from other forms of violence or crime.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
terrorist attackact of terrorismterror attackviolent extremist act
Antonyms / Antônimos
peaceful demonstrationlawful protestcivil discourse

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ato terrorista
Standard translation used in news media and official documents
São Paulo
ato terrorista
Common usage in major metropolitan areas
Portugal
ato terrorista
Same translation used in European Portuguese
United States
terrorist act/attack
Commonly used in legal and security contexts following 9/11

Related Words

terrorismterroristextremismviolencebombingattack

Related Idioms & Phrases

to carry out a terrorist act
to be linked to a terrorist act
to claim responsibility for a terrorist act
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