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Legation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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legation

[lษชหˆษกeษชสƒษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

diplomatic relations

The act of sending a diplomat as an official representative of a country to another country, especially for negotiations or discussions.

Synonyms

delegation, embassy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
legation

This term is somewhat old-fashioned and was more commonly used in the 19th and early 20th centuries to refer to a diplomatic mission in a foreign country, headed by a minister rather than an ambassador.

  • The legation worked tirelessly to resolve the trade dispute.
  • They visited the French legation for the gala event.
embassy

This term refers to the official office of an ambassador in a foreign country, where diplomatic activities are conducted. The word is very common in modern usage.

  • She visited the American embassy to renew her passport.
  • Security at the embassy was heightened after the recent events.
delegation

This word is typically used when a group of people is sent to represent an organization, country, or government for a specific purpose, such as conferences, negotiations, or official visits.

  • A delegation from Japan attended the international summit.
  • The CEO sent a delegation to discuss the merger.

Examples of usage

  • The legation was established to improve diplomatic relations between the two countries.
  • The ambassador led the legation to discuss the trade agreement.
Context #2 | Noun

historical context

A diplomatic mission or office of a government in a foreign city.

Synonyms

consulate, mission.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
legation

Used mainly in historical contexts or in reference to a permanent diplomatic mission from one country to another, especially when it is of lower rank than an embassy. It's less commonly used in modern language.

  • The legation was responsible for maintaining relations between the two countries in the 19th century.
  • He was assigned to the French legation in Madrid.
mission

A broader term that can refer to a special delegation or group sent to accomplish a specific task, such as a peacekeeping mission, trade mission, or diplomatic mission. It is not limited to diplomacy and can be used in various contexts.

  • The trade mission aimed to increase exports to Asian markets.
  • They were part of a humanitarian mission providing aid after the earthquake.
consulate

Refers to the office or residence of a consul, who represents their home country in a foreign city. Consulates provide services to expatriates and travelers, such as issuing visas and helping in emergencies.

  • I went to the consulate to renew my passport.
  • The American consulate in Berlin offers assistance to U.S. citizens living or traveling in Germany.

Examples of usage

  • The legation in Paris was responsible for handling diplomatic affairs with France.
  • The legation building served as the official residence of the ambassador.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Legations were common during the Renaissance when countries began formalizing diplomatic relations.
  • In the 19th century, legations were upgraded to embassies as international diplomacy evolved.

Political Science

  • Legations often focus on diplomatic negotiations, trade agreements, and fostering relationships between nations.
  • The head of a legation is typically referred to as a 'ministre plรฉnipotentiaire' in countries that use this term, indicating full powers.

Cultural Significance

  • Most countries today handle international relations through embassies, but legations still exist in some nations with ongoing historical contexts.
  • Legations symbolize the importance of dialogue and cooperation in international relations.

Modern Usage

  • In some cases, legations are temporary and established during times of crisis when embassies are not operational.
  • Legations can also be involved in cultural exchange programs to foster mutual understanding and respect.

Origin of 'legation'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'legatio', meaning 'delegation' or 'sending' which reflects its purpose of sending representatives.
  • Associated with the verb 'legare', which means 'to delegate' or 'to send with a mission'.

The word 'legation' originates from the Latin word 'legatio', which means 'a sending as an envoy'. In ancient Rome, legations were official missions sent by the Roman Senate to foreign countries. The concept of legations evolved over time to represent diplomatic offices and missions in foreign territories. Legations played a crucial role in maintaining diplomatic relations and facilitating negotiations between nations.

See also: leg, legacy, legal, legatee, legend, legible, legs.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,269, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.