Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/dɪˈpləʊməsi/

Definitions

• The profession, activity, or skill of managing international relations, typically by a country's representatives abroad.
• The art of dealing with people in a sensitive and effective way, often involving negotiation and tact.
• A system or practice of managing political relationships between countries, often involving formal negotiations and agreements.

Usage Examples

• His skill in diplomacy helped resolve the international conflict peacefully.
• Effective diplomacy requires not only knowledge of international law but also the ability to navigate cultural differences.
• The ambassador's diplomacy was instrumental in securing a trade agreement between the two countries.

Etymology

The term "diplomacy" comes from the Greek word "diploma," meaning "a folded paper" or "document," and the suffix "-acy," indicating a state or condition. Initially, "diplomacy" referred to the documents or credentials that diplomats carried, which later evolved to refer to the practice of negotiation and management of international relations.

Synonyms

• Negotiation
• Statecraft
• Foreign policy
• International relations
• Tact

Antonyms

• Confrontation
• Hostility
• Conflict
• War

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Although "diplomacy" is commonly pronounced as /dɪˈpləʊməsi/ in English, regional accents may lead to slight variations. In non-English speaking countries, the term is often pronounced according to local phonetic rules, which may slightly alter the sound of certain vowels and syllables.

Historical Usage

The word "diplomacy" has been in use since the 18th century, derived from the Greek word "diploma," meaning "document" or "official letter." Diplomacy initially referred to official documents and later to the art of managing political affairs between states. Over time, it has come to encompass not only negotiations between governments but also efforts to resolve conflicts, maintain peace, and establish international agreements. Diplomacy became especially prominent in the 19th and 20th centuries as global relations became more complex and interconnected.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, diplomacy is highly valued, and diplomats are seen as essential to the smooth functioning of international relations. In countries with strong diplomatic traditions, individuals who engage in diplomacy are often seen as skilled negotiators with the ability to bring about peaceful resolutions. In other cultures, the focus may be on more direct forms of political engagement, such as activism or military intervention, with diplomacy viewed as a secondary or less effective approach.

More Information

Diplomacy is the practice of managing international relations through negotiation, dialogue, and communication between countries. It involves both formal and informal methods of addressing global issues, fostering relationships, and resolving conflicts. Diplomacy can take various forms, from traditional state-to-state negotiations to back-channel diplomacy, where representatives work outside of official channels to resolve disputes. Diplomats are often trained professionals who use a combination of negotiation skills, cultural understanding, and political acumen to serve their country's interests. Modern diplomacy also includes efforts to address global challenges like climate change, human rights, and cybersecurity. While diplomacy is primarily a governmental function, many organizations, such as NGOs and multinational corporations, also engage in diplomatic practices to promote their goals and build partnerships.