diplomacy

di·plo·ma·cy

noun \də-ˈplō-mə-sē\

Definition of DIPLOMACY

1

: the art and practice of conducting negotiations between nations

2

: skill in handling affairs without arousing hostility : tact

Examples of DIPLOMACY

1. She has had a long and distinguished career in diplomacy.
2. The government avoided a war by successfully resolving the issues through diplomacy.
3. This is a situation that calls for tactful diplomacy.

First Known Use of DIPLOMACY

1796

Related to DIPLOMACY

Synonyms

tact, tactfulness

Antonyms

clumsiness, insensitivity, tactlessness

Related Words

considerateness, consideration, courteousness, courtesy, delicacy, graciousness, sensitivity, thoughtfulness; civility, etiquette, mannerliness, manners, politeness; charm, gallantry, gentility, grace, gracefulness, poise, savoir faire, suaveness, suavity; adroitness, deftness, dexterity, finesse; deference, regard, respect

Near Antonyms

discourteousness, discourtesy, impoliteness, inconsiderateness, inconsideration, indelicacy, thoughtlessness, ungraciousness; impoliteness, incivility; boorishness, brashness, brassiness, loutishness; awkwardness, gaucheness, gracelessness, maladroitness; disregard, disrespect, disrespectfulness, impertinence, impudence, insolence, rudeness

Other Government and Politics Terms

agent provocateur, agitprop, autarky, cabal, egalitarianism, federalism, hegemony, plenipotentiary, popular sovereignty, socialism

diplomacy

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Art of conducting relationships for gain without conflict. It is the chief instrument of foreign policy. Its methods include secret negotiation by accredited envoys (though political leaders also negotiate) and international agreements and laws. Its use predates recorded history. The goal of diplomacy is to further the state's interests as dictated by geography, history, and economics. Safeguarding the state's independence, security, and integrity is of prime importance; preserving the widest possible freedom of action for the state is nearly as important. Beyond that, diplomacy seeks maximum national advantage without using force and preferably without causing resentment.