WordGarden.iodiplomacy
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /dɪplˈəʊməsˌi/
US
- /dɪˈploʊməsi/
Meanings
Noun
the management of relations and negotiations between governments
tactful skill in handling people or sensitive situations
Beyond the definition
Diplomacy isn't just about politicians in suits shaking hands. It's the art of dealing with people with care and skill—especially in difficult situations. Think of a skilled negotiator helping two arguing friends reach an agreement, or a parent calmly explaining to a child why they can't have another cookie. That's diplomacy in action! It takes tact, patience, and understanding. A diplomat is someone trained in this art, often representing their country in international affairs, but you use diplomacy every day when handling social situations or resolving conflicts with loved ones.
Diplomacy refers to the art and practice of conducting negotiations between representatives of states or groups. It's about managing international relations through peaceful means—think treaties, alliances, and communication rather than conflict and war. Historically, it involved formal channels like embassies and ambassadors, but today diplomacy extends far beyond that.
At its core, diplomacy is about skillful communication and tactful negotiation. A diplomat must be able to understand different perspectives, build trust, and find common ground even when faced with opposing viewpoints. It requires a delicate balance of firmness and flexibility—knowing when to stand your ground and when to compromise.
The term can also be used more broadly to describe the ability to handle sensitive situations or people with grace and understanding. You might say someone "handled that difficult conversation with diplomacy," meaning they navigated it skillfully without causing offense. A lack of diplomacy, on the other hand, could lead to misunderstandings, hurt feelings, or even escalated conflict.
From high-level international summits to everyday interactions, diplomacy is essential for building relationships, resolving disputes, and fostering cooperation. It's a crucial skill for leaders, negotiators, and anyone who wants to navigate the complexities of human interaction with care and effectiveness.
Examples
- 1
International relations
After months of tension, the two countries returned to diplomacy.
- 2
War prevention
International diplomacy can move slowly, but it can prevent a war.
- 3
Interview tact
She handled the interview question with honesty and diplomacy.
- 4
Negotiation
It took a lot of diplomacy to get both sides to accept the deal.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Private talks
Quiet diplomacy often works better than public threats.
- Phrasequiet diplomacy
private talks instead of public pressure
- 6
Workplace tact
In a small office, a little diplomacy can make daily life much easier.
- Phraseoffice diplomacy
careful, tactful behavior with coworkers
See also
Similar
- negotiation
- statecraft
- foreign relations
Shades of meaning
- mediation
- back-channel negotiation
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- international diplomacy
- shuttle diplomacy
- quiet diplomacy
- diplomacy and sanctions
Word family
Explore
- international relations
- treaty
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- diplomacynoun