Pacts Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pacts

[pækts ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

international agreements

Pacts are formal agreements between individuals or parties, usually involving promises or commitments. These agreements are legally binding and often involve specific terms and conditions that both parties must adhere to. Pacts can cover a wide range of topics, from trade deals to peace agreements.

Synonyms

accord, agreement, compact, deal, treaty.

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Word Description / Examples
pacts

Typically used in formal or international settings to describe official agreements between countries or organizations.

  • The warring countries signed several pacts to secure peace in the region.
  • Environmental pacts between nations aim to reduce global carbon emissions.
agreement

A general term that can be used in both formal and informal situations to indicate mutual consent or terms between parties.

  • We finally reached an agreement on the project's budget.
  • The companies entered into an agreement to share resources.
treaty

A formal and official agreement between countries, typically used in contexts involving international relations and law.

  • The Treaty of Versailles effectively ended World War I.
  • The two nations are negotiating a new trade treaty.
deal

Used in both informal and formal contexts, often related to business or simple agreements. It can sometimes carry a slightly casual or even negative connotation.

  • They made a deal to exchange services.
  • The shady deal eventually led to a series of investigations.
compact

Refers to a formal and often legally binding agreement between two or more parties, typically on a smaller scale than pacts or treaties.

  • The two companies signed a compact to collaborate on the new technology.
  • The community leaders formed a compact to improve public services.
accord

Often used to refer to peace agreements or significant reconciliations between parties. Usually, it has a formal tone.

  • The politicians reached an accord to end the longstanding conflict.
  • The Paris Climate Accord is an important step towards global environmental protection.

Examples of usage

  • The two countries signed a pact to reduce tariffs on imported goods.
  • She made a pact with her friend to always support each other no matter what.
  • The peace pact between the warring factions brought an end to the conflict.
  • Both companies entered into a pact to collaborate on research and development.
  • The pact required both parties to provide mutual assistance in times of need.

Translations

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Origin of 'pacts'

The word 'pact' originated from the Latin word 'pactum', which means 'an agreement or compact'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to formal agreements or treaties between parties. Pacts have played a significant role in international relations and diplomacy throughout history, shaping the course of alliances and conflicts.


See also: pact.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,360, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.