Diplomat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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diplomat
[ˈdɪpləmæt ]
Definitions
international relations
A diplomat is a person appointed by a government to conduct diplomacy with other countries or international organizations. They represent their country's interests, negotiate agreements, and communicate with foreign governments.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| diplomat |
General term for someone skilled in managing international relations and negotiations. Typically used to describe someone who works for their country's foreign service.
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| ambassador |
A high-ranking diplomat representing their country permanently in a foreign nation or international organization.
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| envoy |
A messenger or representative, often on a special mission. Can be used more informally and sometimes for shorter, specific tasks or negotiations.
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| delegate |
A person chosen to represent others, often in a conference or formal meeting; can be temporary and not limited to international relations.
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Examples of usage
- The diplomat was tasked with negotiating a trade agreement with the neighboring country.
- The diplomat's role is crucial in maintaining peaceful relations between nations.
formal
A diplomat is a person who is skilled at dealing with people in a sensitive and effective way, typically in difficult situations. They are adept at resolving conflicts and finding common ground.
Synonyms
mediator, negotiator, tactician.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| diplomat |
Often a representative of a country who works to maintain peace with other nations. Used in formal situations or international relations.
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| tactician |
A person who is skilled in planning specific strategies or tactics, particularly in military or competitive scenarios. It often implies careful and strategic planning.
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| negotiator |
A person who tries to reach an agreement through discussion and bargaining. Often used in business, politics, or any scenario requiring deal-making.
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| mediator |
A person who helps to settle disputes between two or more parties. Commonly used in both formal and informal conflict resolution contexts.
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Examples of usage
- She handled the disagreement with such diplomacy and tact, earning the respect of her colleagues.
- His diplomatic approach to the issue helped de-escalate tensions in the office.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'diplomat' comes from the Greek word 'diploma,' meaning a folded paper, like the documents used to grant privileges or official positions.
- The modern concept of diplomacy began with the establishment of city-states in ancient Greece, where envoys were sent to negotiate trade and alliances.
- Diplomatic practices were further developed during the Renaissance, when European nations began to establish formal embassies and exploring international relations.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, diplomats are seen as symbols of peace and negotiation, often celebrated in national ceremonies.
- The role of diplomats can vary significantly across cultures; for instance, some societies may place higher emphasis on elder statesmen as representatives.
- Pop culture often portrays diplomats as spies or secret agents, emphasizing their political maneuvering and mission-driven efforts.
International Relations
- Diplomats play crucial roles in resolving conflicts and preventing wars through negotiations and treaties.
- The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, established in 1961, codifies the rules of diplomacy and outlines the rights of diplomats worldwide.
- There are different types of diplomats, including ambassadors, who represent their country at the highest level, and envoys, who handle specific missions.
Psychology
- Effective diplomats often possess strong emotional intelligence, allowing them to read situations and emotions well.
- Cognitive flexibility is critical for diplomats, enabling them to adapt strategies based on different cultural contexts and negotiation styles.
- The art of persuasion and conflict resolution is a fundamental skill for diplomats, helping to foster understanding between disparate parties.
Current Events
- In today's global environment, diplomats are increasingly using social media to communicate with younger audiences and engage with international communities.
- Climate change negotiations illustrate how diplomats gather to create global agreements impacting all countries' futures.
- Recent events have highlighted the role of diplomats in handling crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and international trade disputes.
Origin of 'diplomat'
The word 'diplomat' originated from the French word 'diplomate', which in turn came from the Latin word 'diploma' meaning 'official document'. Diplomacy has been an essential part of international relations for centuries, with diplomats playing a crucial role in maintaining peace and resolving conflicts between nations.