Conciliation: meaning, definitions and examples

Similar to 'conciliation', this is used in the general context of making peace or reducing hostility, often through negotiation and mutual agreement.

• The company took steps towards conciliation with its employees.
• The conciliation process has eased tensions significantly.

Reconciliation is used when there is a desire or effort to restore friendly relations after a conflict or disagreement, emphasizing forgiveness and understanding.

• After years of estrangement, the brothers finally sought reconciliation.
• The reconciliation between the two communities was a significant achievement.

This term is typically used in reference to initiatives aimed at establishing peace, often in the context of international conflicts, and can involve diplomatic efforts or interventions.

• The United Nations has been involved in peacemaking missions around the world.
• His work in peacemaking earned him a Nobel Peace Prize.

This word tends to have a negative connotation and is used when someone tries to make peace by giving in to demands, often seen as a sign of weakness or yielding to pressure.

• The government's policy of appeasement was criticized for encouraging further aggression.
• He regrets his strategy of appeasement, as it only led to more problems.

Used in a less formal setting where the goal is to help the parties reach an agreement through a neutral third party's encouragement.

• The HR manager's role often involves conciliation to handle conflicts among staff members.
• Conciliation efforts resulted in a peaceful resolution to the neighborhood dispute.

Used when a neutral third party facilitates communication and negotiation between disputing parties to help them reach a voluntary agreement.

• They enlisted a mediator for mediation to help them settle the divorce terms amicably.
• Mediation proved effective in resolving the business deal standoff without litigation.

Used in legal or formal situations where a neutral third party makes a binding decision to resolve a dispute.

• They decided to go to arbitration to settle their contract disagreement without going to court.
• The arbitration process lasted for several weeks before a final decision was reached.

Used in a broad range of contexts where two or more parties discuss terms to reach a mutual agreement.

• Both sides entered into negotiation to agree on the details of the trade agreement.
• Effective negotiation skills are crucial for sales professionals to close deals.