What does “Fifth columnist” mean?
"Fifth columnist" means a person who secretly works against a group or organization from within.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The spy was discovered as a Fifth columnist within the organization.
Example
The Fifth columnist leaked sensitive information to the enemy.
Example
The group was infiltrated by a Fifth columnist who sabotaged their plans
Is “Fifth columnist” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Fifth columnist” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Fifth columnist” effectively in context?
You can use "Fifth columnist" to describe someone who is acting as a spy or traitor within a group or organization. It emphasizes the idea of betrayal and deception. For example, if you suspect that there is a spy within your team leaking information to a competitor, you might say, 'We need to be careful, there could be a fifth columnist among us.'
- 1Politics
The politician was accused of being a Fifth columnist for a rival party, secretly working against his own party's interests.
- 2Corporate Espionage
The company discovered a Fifth columnist in their ranks who had been stealing trade secrets and selling them to a competitor.
- 3Military Operations
The military unit suspected that there was a Fifth columnist in their midst, providing information to the enemy.
Similar phrases to “Fifth columnist”:
Double agent
A person who pretends to work for one side while actually working for the other
Example
He was revealed to be a double agent, secretly working for the enemy.
A person who infiltrates an organization or group with the intention of spying or causing harm
Example
The company discovered a mole within their ranks, leaking confidential information.
A person who switches allegiance or loyalty, often betraying their former group
Example
He was labeled a turncoat after he switched sides during the conflict.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Fifth columnist” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Fifth columnist" can be traced back to the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s. During this time, General Emilio Mola Vidal, a Nationalist military leader, claimed that he had four columns of troops advancing towards Madrid, and a 'fifth column' of sympathizers within the city who would support the Nationalists. The term 'fifth columnist' was then popularized and came to refer to individuals who secretly work against a group or organization from within.
Is “Fifth columnist” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Fifth columnist" is not as commonly used in everyday conversation compared to other idioms. However, it is still known and understood by many people, especially those familiar with history or espionage-related topics.
What tone does “Fifth columnist” have?
"Fifth columnist" conveys a tone of suspicion and betrayal. It is often used to describe someone who is working against a group or organization in a secretive and deceptive manner.
Can “Fifth columnist” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Fifth columnist" is more commonly used in formal settings or in discussions related to politics, espionage, or military operations. It may not be as frequently used in casual conversations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'They suspected him of being a fifth columnist.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Watch out for fifth columnists!' to imply the presence of spies or traitors.
