Usage Note
garnison refers to the troops stationed in a fortified place or town, or to the town itself where troops are posted. Être en garnison means to be stationed (at a post). French garrison towns historically had a significant economic relationship with local populations, a fact reflected in many regional histories.
Examples
"Les soldats étaient en garnison à Metz."
Natural Translation
The soldiers were garrisoned in Metz.
Literal Translation
The soldiers were in garrison at Metz.

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