General
the field
What does the field mean?
Any duty or training conducted away from a permanent post or base, or the state of being forward-deployed. 'In the field' means living rough on exercise or operations.
"We're in the field all next week — pack for the weather."
Origin
US and UK military usage.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'the field' mean in the military?
Any duty or training done away from a permanent base — living rough on exercise or deployment, out in the elements.
What does 'in the field' mean?
It means you're out on exercise or operations, living in the open rather than in barracks.
Is 'the field' used outside the US military?
Yes — it's standard usage in both US and UK forces.
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