The difference between 'armistice' and 'ceasefire' please.

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Mehrgan

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Hi,
I'd be much thankful if you could help me get the difference.
 

SoothingDave

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They are synonyms. "Cease fire" is usually used today, perhaps because the word "armistice" became associated with the end of World War I on November 11, and the subsequent "Armistice Day" to remember. (This holiday is now called "Veterans Day.")
 

emsr2d2

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I would consider a ceasefire to be potentially more temporary. Warring factions quite frequently call a ceasefire but it can last from hours to weeks. An armistice is usually more "official", with the leaders of the warring factions signing papers declaring a war to be over. I would say that an armistice might come after several ceasefires.
 
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