Which type of soldiers is distinct from professional soldiers?

Militia refers to a group of individuals who engage in military service but are not professional soldiers. They serve primarily as a reserve force and are often composed of civilians who may be called upon in times of need, such as during emergencies or conflicts. Unlike professional soldiers who undergo extensive training and serve in a structured military organization full-time, militia members typically have other primary occupations and may only train intermittently.

This distinction is important because militias often operate under different legal frameworks and organizational structures compared to the Regular Army, which is composed of full-time, career military personnel. Similarly, private forces and paramilitary groups can have their distinct roles and functions but are not characterized by the same civilian composition and voluntary service that define militias. Understanding these differences helps clarify the various roles individuals can play in military contexts and their varying commitments to service.