direct action

noun

: action that seeks to achieve an end directly and by the most immediately effective means (such as a boycott or strike)

Examples of direct action in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As our colleague Monica Potts wrote last week, taking direct action on the economy is a challenge for presidents. Mary Radcliffe, ABC News, 22 Jan. 2025 Several replies praised the user for taking such direct action against someone who was rude to them. Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 27 Dec. 2024 The projectiles marked the first direct action by Hezbollah against Israeli forces since the 60-day ceasefire began last Wednesday. Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2024 Their tactics included direct action, protests, and community education. Banseka Kayembe, refinery29.com, 22 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for direct action 

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of direct action was in 1912

Dictionary Entries Near direct action

Cite this Entry

“Direct action.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/direct%20action. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.

Legal Definition

direct action

noun
1
: an action in which the plaintiff sues a person's insurer without first obtaining a judgment against the insured or joining the insured
2
: a suit by a shareholder for an injury to himself or herself independent from any injury to the corporation

called also individual action

compare derivative action

More from Merriam-Webster on direct action

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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