WordGarden.ioliaise
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈɪeɪz/
US
Meanings
Verb
to communicate and coordinate between people or groups, especially in a work setting
Beyond the definition
Imagine you're planning a big event - maybe a school fundraiser or a community festival. You wouldn't do it all yourself, right? You'd need to liaise with different groups - the bake sale team, the music performers, and the volunteers. To liaise means to establish communication and work together with someone or an organization, often in an official capacity. It's more than just talking; it's about actively coordinating efforts. A public relations officer might liaise with both a company and the media, ensuring clear messaging. Think of it as being the bridge between people who need to collaborate.
To liaise means to establish communication and maintain contact between individuals or organizations, typically in an official or professional context, to coordinate activities or share information. It's about acting as a point of connection - a go-between - ensuring everyone is on the same page.
The word comes from the French lier, meaning "to bind," suggesting the act of connecting different parties together. While you can liaise with anyone, it's most often used in professional settings where clear communication and coordination are crucial. For example, a project manager might liaise with various departments to ensure a smooth workflow. A diplomat would liaise with foreign governments to foster positive relations.
It's not simply about reporting information; it involves actively building relationships and working collaboratively. You don't "liaise" with your best friend over what movie to watch—you just chat! But you would liaise with the event planner to confirm details for a charity gala. The key is that there's an element of official duty or coordinated effort involved.
So, when you need to connect people and ensure smooth collaboration, remember to liaise - be the bridge that brings everyone together.
Examples
- 1
Business coordination
Please liaise with the sales team before you send the final quote.
- Usage
liaise with is common in business or formal contexts
- 2
Hotel bookings
She will liaise with the hotel about room bookings and meal times.
- 3
Product development
Our project manager liaises closely with the designers on every new feature.
- Patternliaise with someone on something
work with them about that task
- 4
Community support
The charity liaised with local schools to find families who needed support.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Legal talks
I was asked to liaise between the client and the legal team during the contract talks.
- Patternliaise between A and B
help two sides communicate
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- liaise with
- liaise between
- liaise closely with
- liaise with the authorities
Word family
Explore
- point of contact
- interdepartmental communication
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- liaiseverb
Forms
- liaising-ing formverb
- liaisedpast tenseverb
- liaisesverb