Pronunciation: [stˈand ˈɑːmi] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "stand army" may seem confusing due to the presence of the silent letter "d" in "stand". However, this is due to the historical development of the word from its earlier form, "stande". The IPA phonetic transcription for "stand army" is /stænd ˈɑːmi/. The "a" in "stand" is pronounced as the vowel in "cat", while the "d" is not pronounced. The stress is on the first syllable of both "stand" and "army".
A standing army refers to a permanent, professional military force maintained by a nation-state during times of peace. It is characterized by its permanence and readiness for immediate deployment in times of conflict or war. Standing armies are typically organized, trained, and equipped to defend a country's territorial integrity and maintain internal security.
With origins dating back to ancient times, standing armies gained prominence during the early modern period, as they became essential for protecting national interests and projecting military power globally. Unlike historical armies that were often raised and disbanded according to immediate need, standing armies are maintained continuously, thereby providing a reliable and stable force structure capable of swift mobilization.
The concept of a standing army contrasts with that of a conscripted or reserve force, where individuals are called upon to serve in the military for a specific duration after an emergency or declaration of war. While conscripted armies rely on a system of mass conscription and training, standing armies rely on professional soldiers who make the military their career.
The advantages of a standing army include readiness, professionalism, and expertise in both defensive and offensive operations. It enables countries to respond rapidly to any threats or incursions, offering a deterrence effect and serving as a symbol of national power. However, the presence of a standing army can also be a potential threat to civil liberties and can hinder a nation's economic development due to the financial resources required to maintain such a force.
The term "stand army" is not a commonly used term or a recognized phrase in English. However, it may be confused with the term "standing army", which is an established term in military terminology.
The term "standing army" refers to a permanent, professional army that is active even during times of peace. It stands in contrast to a citizen army or a militia that is raised only when needed. The etymology of the term "standing army" can be traced back to the 16th century.
"Stand" in this context means "to be stationed or positioned", and "army" refers to a military force. The combination of these words reflects the concept of a force of soldiers that is always standing or remaining in a state of readiness, irrespective of the absence of an immediate threat or conflict.
