diplomacy

diplomacy — noun

1. the work of representing and protecting a country's interests abroad by talking

1.名詞B2
釋義

the work of representing and protecting a country's interests abroad by talking and reaching agreements with other governments, especially to prevent conflict or build cooperation

例句

The ambassador used quiet diplomacy to ease tensions between the two neighbours.

quiet diplomacy — informal, behind-the-scenes talks between countries

Camila chose a career in diplomacy after working for the United Nations.

同義詞
  • negotiations

    more concrete, referring to specific talks rather than the general activity or profession

  • statecraft

    more formal, with a focus on strategic political governance across borders

  • statesmanship

    even more formal, implying wisdom and long-term vision in leadership

反義詞
  • warfare

    the opposite approach to resolving international disputes — force rather than dialogue

  • conflict

    the breakdown of diplomatic efforts into open disagreement or fighting

用法筆記

Often modified by an adjective describing the approach (quiet diplomacy, gunboat diplomacy, public diplomacy). Frequently used in political journalism and international affairs writing.

常見錯誤

❌The diplomacy between the two companies was excellent.
✅Relations between the two companies were handled with skill.
💡In this sense, 'diplomacy' refers specifically to international or government-level relations, not business dealings.

2. the ability to handle awkward or sensitive personal situations in a way that avo

2.名詞B2
釋義

the ability to handle awkward or sensitive personal situations in a way that avoids making others feel angry, embarrassed, or hurt

例句

Reuben handled the complaint with diplomacy, so the customer left feeling satisfied.

handle with diplomacy — manage a difficult situation politely

When Wei criticised the plan, he did it with enough diplomacy to avoid hurt feelings.

同義詞
  • tact

    the closest synonym; emphasises knowing what to say or not say to avoid offence

  • discretion

    emphasises keeping things private or choosing the right moment to speak

  • sensitivity

    focuses on being aware of and responsive to other people's feelings

反義詞
  • bluntness

    saying things directly without care for how they will be received

  • rudeness

    behaviour that deliberately or carelessly offends others

用法筆記

Common in the pattern 'with diplomacy' or 'requires diplomacy'. Frequently used in workplace, social, and family contexts where the speaker is advising careful handling of other people's feelings.

常見錯誤

❌She showed great diplomacy in baking the cake.
✅She showed great diplomacy when she told her friend the cake was dry without sounding rude.
💡'diplomacy' in this sense is about handling people carefully, not about practical skills or tasks.