
Diplomacy is derived from the ancient Greek word δίπλωμα (diploma), which means a paper folded double, a licence, or a chart. The term later came to refer to a document that granted privileges, such as a permit to travel. In the 18th century, the French term diplomate referred to a person authorised to negotiate on behalf of a state. Today, diplomacy is the art of helping groups get along and work together, and it is often associated with international relations and foreign policy. It involves the use of dialogue, negotiation, and other peaceful measures to influence the decisions and behaviour of foreign governments and peoples.
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UK English pronunciation
The word "diplomacy" in UK English is pronounced as dɪˈpləʊməsi. This pronunciation is typical of British English speakers and may vary slightly from other English accents, such as American English.
The phonetic spelling, dɪˈpləʊməsi, provides a guide to pronouncing the word in UK English. The first syllable, "dip," is pronounced with a short "i" sound as in "dip." The second syllable, "lo-ma," includes the long "o" sound, as in "no," followed by the sound of a short "ma," as in "ma-ma." The final syllable, "cy," uses the soft "c" sound, as in "city," with a long "e" sound, as in "me."
Combining these syllables, the word "diplomacy" in UK English pronunciation sounds like "dip-lo-ma-cy," with the emphasis on the second syllable, "lo." This pronunciation guide provides a clear understanding of how to say the word in the UK English accent, which may differ from other regional accents of English.
It's important to note that pronunciation can vary slightly depending on the region and individual speaker. However, this guide provides a standard and widely recognised pronunciation of the term "diplomacy" in UK English.
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US English pronunciation
The word "diplomacy" in US English is pronounced as follows:
/dɪˈploʊ.mə.si/
Breaking it down, the word is pronounced with the following sounds:
- /d/ as in "day"
- /ɪ/ as in "happy"
- /p/ as in "pen"
- /l/ as in "look"
- /oʊ/ as in "nose"
- /m/ as in "moon"
- /ə/ as in "happy"
- /s/ as in "pen"
- /i/ as in "happy"
You can also listen to the pronunciation and practice saying the word using online resources and tutorials, such as the ones provided by EmmaSaying on YouTube.
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Spelling
The word "diplomacy" is spelled as it is pronounced. The word has three syllables: "dip-lo-ma-cy." The stress is on the first syllable, and the "cy" at the end of the word is pronounced like the "cy" in "cyclone."
The letters "mac" in the middle of the word are pronounced like the word "macaroni." The "cy" at the end of the word is a common suffix in English, and it indicates that the word is a noun and that it has something to do with the preceding word. In this case, "diplomacy" is the quality or state of being diplomatic.
The word "diplomacy" is a noun and refers to the art or practice of conducting international relations, typically by a diplomat or ambassador. It can also refer to the tactics or strategies used in conducting these relations, such as negotiation, compromise, and the exchange of information or concessions.
The word "diplomacy" has a complex history and etymology. It is derived from the ancient Greek word "diplōmatēs," which referred to a folded document or diploma. This root also gives us the word "diploma." The idea behind the word is that diplomacy is the art of dealing with documents, treaties, and other official papers. Over time, the word took on a broader meaning and came to refer to the conduct of international relations more generally.
Unfortunately, I am unable to provide audio for the pronunciation of the word. However, there are many online resources and YouTube videos that can provide further clarification on the pronunciation of the word "diplomacy."
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Synonyms
Diplomacy is a nuanced word with no direct synonyms. However, several words are associated with and convey the meaning of diplomacy. These include “tact”, “discretion”, “subtlety”, “delicacy”, “craft”, and “cunning”. These words allude to the careful and thoughtful approach required in diplomacy to navigate complex situations and relationships.
When describing a person who is diplomatic, synonyms such as “bland”, “politic”, “smooth”, “suave”, and “urbane” can be used. These words emphasise the ability to be “pleasantly tactful and well-mannered” while navigating potentially challenging situations. For example, the word “bland” suggests a mild and non-irritating manner, while “politic” implies a shrewd and tactful approach. “Smooth” suggests a deliberate effort to be suave, and “suave” conveys ease in dealing with others. “Urbane”, on the other hand, hints at a person's wide social experience and high cultivation.
The word "diplomacy" itself encompasses a range of skills and qualities that enable effective interaction and negotiation in sensitive contexts. It involves the ability to deal with others in touchy or ticklish situations without causing offence or creating friction. This can be particularly important when dealing with people of power and influence, where a careful choice of words and actions can prevent escalation and foster cooperation.
In a broader sense, diplomacy can also refer to the management of international relations and the pursuit of foreign policy objectives through negotiation, mediation, and compromise. This form of diplomacy requires a deep understanding of geopolitics and the ability to navigate cultural differences and conflicting interests. It often involves delicate and complex negotiations, where discretion and subtlety are crucial to achieving favourable outcomes.
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Antonyms
Diplomacy is defined by the ability to deal with others in sensitive situations without causing offence. Antonyms of the word 'diplomacy' include adjectives that describe a person who lacks this ability, such as:
- Undiplomatic: This is the most direct antonym, indicating a lack of skill or sensitivity in handling delicate situations.
- Tactless: Lacking in tact or sensitivity, a tactless person may say or do things that cause offence or create tension.
- Impolitic: This word suggests a person's inability to act or speak with political correctness or sensitivity to social norms.
- Gauche: Someone who is gauche lacks social grace and may appear awkward or uncomfortable in diplomatic settings.
- Thoughtless: A thoughtless person might not consider the consequences of their words or actions, potentially causing offence or showing a disregard for others' feelings.
- Discourteous: Lacking in courtesy or respect, a discourteous person may be seen as rude or inappropriate in diplomatic circles.
- Indelicate: This antonym conveys a lack of subtlety or finesse, suggesting that a person may handle delicate matters too bluntly or insensitively.
These antonyms capture the opposite qualities of a diplomatic person, highlighting traits such as insensitivity, awkwardness, and a lack of consideration for others.
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Frequently asked questions
"Diplomacy" /dɪpləməsi/.
Diplomacy is the art of helping groups get along and work together. It is often associated with international relations and negotiations between nations.
The term diplomacy is derived from the ancient Greek word "δίπλωμα" (diploma), which referred to a folded document that granted privileges, such as a permit to travel.

























