A new regime(n)(t)

The new regime required the elite regiment to adopt a regimen of long marches.

Regiment

It could happen.

And if it did, it would likely be reported incorrectly. These three near-homonyms are used interchangeably all too often, whether big-time media, learned treatise, or blog/comments entry. Make’a me crazy.

Regime: A ruling or prevailing system. A government in power.

Regimen: A regulated system, as of diet, therapy, or exercise. A course of intense physical training.

Regiment: Noun: A unit of ground forces, consisting of two or more battalions, a headquarters unit, and certain supporting units. A large number in regular or organized groups.

Verb: To manage or treat in a rigid, uniform manner; subject to strict discipline. To form into a regiment or into organized groups.

The basic concept for regime is that it is a controlling entity, directing its attention downwards. A change in government signals the start of a new regime.

The basic concept for regimen is that it refers to prescribed action. A regime may impose rules…which may be structured as a regimen to be followed; a course of action, or a set of rules. A diet is a regimen.

The basic concept for regiment is that it refers to an organized group.  

The new government took control of the military and put the elite unit on a program of long marches for fitness and readiness.

It could happen.