die Wehrpflicht
Translation
conscription, compulsory military service, the draft
Examples
In Deutschland wurde die Wehrpflicht ausgesetzt.
Conscription was suspended in Germany.
Viele Länder haben noch eine Wehrpflicht.
Many countries still have conscription.
Grammar Patterns
to introduce/abolish/suspend conscription (the draft) The government wants to reintroduce the draft.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Militärdienst (military service); Antonyms: Freiwilligendienst (voluntary service)
Etymology
Composed of 'Wehr' (defense) and 'Pflicht' (duty). Literally 'defense duty'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as the 'duty' (Pflicht) to provide 'defense' (Wehr) for the country.