Coalition

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌkoʊ.əˈlɪʃ.ən/

Definitions

• A group of individuals, organizations, or countries that have come together for a common purpose, often for political, economic, or military objectives.
• The act of joining forces to form such a group or alliance.
• A temporary alliance of political parties, typically to form a government or take collective action on certain issues.

Usage Examples

• The coalition of environmental groups worked together to promote sustainable energy policies.
• After the election, the political parties formed a coalition government to ensure stability.
• Various countries formed a coalition to combat the spread of terrorism across borders.

Etymology

The word "coalition" comes from the Latin "coalitio," meaning "a growing together, union," which is derived from "coalescere" (to grow together). The term began to be used in English in the 17th century, initially to refer to the joining of political parties or factions.

Synonyms

• Alliance
• Partnership
• Federation
• Confederation
• Union

Antonyms

• Division
• Disagreement
• Separation
• Fragmentation

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "coalition" is generally consistent across regions, with minor variations in accent and intonation. In some regions, particularly in non-English speaking countries, the stress on syllables may differ slightly.

Historical Usage

Coalitions have played a key role in political and military history. The term became particularly important in the context of the 19th and 20th centuries when alliances between countries or political factions were needed to counter common threats or achieve shared goals. Notable coalitions include the Allies in both World Wars and the formation of multiparty governments in various countries.

Cultural Nuances

In politics, a coalition is often seen as a necessary compromise to achieve unity or form a government, especially in parliamentary systems with no clear majority. In certain cultural contexts, coalitions may be formed out of necessity, but they can also be fragile and prone to internal conflict due to differing values or goals among the partners.

More Information

Coalitions are not only political but can also be formed in business, environmental movements, and social activism. They allow diverse groups to combine resources and achieve goals that might not be possible individually. However, the success of a coalition depends on effective communication, trust, and a shared vision among its members.