Treaties: meaning, definitions and examples

Formal, legal documents between countries or sovereign states. Used when discussing official, long-lasting and extensive arrangements.

• The peace treaties after World War II helped to shape the modern world.
• Countries often rely on treaties to establish international laws and regulations.

General term for mutual arrangements or understandings, can be formal or informal and applied in a broad range of situations.

• We reached an agreement on the terms of the contract.
• The trade agreement between the two countries boosted economic growth.

Formal but less legally binding than treaties. Often used in the context of diplomatic agreements and resolutions.

• The Paris Climate Accord aims to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions.
• The Camp David Accords were key in establishing peace between Egypt and Israel.

Often used for solemn and binding promises, sometimes carrying more weight than agreements but less formal than treaties. Can be used between countries, organizations, or individuals.

• The two leaders signed a non-aggression pact.
• A pact of friendship was made between the two schools.

Formal written agreements between two or more countries, usually regarding peace, trade, or other important matters.

• The two nations signed several treaties to enhance their diplomatic relations.
• Treaties were crucial in establishing peace after the long conflict.

An agreement between individuals or parties usually indicating a promise or commitment to do something. It can be formal or informal and often implies a strong bond of trust.

• They made a pact to support each other no matter what.
• The countries formed a pact to work together on technological advancements.

A formal agreement or contract between two or more parties. It's often used in a somewhat more general or less formal sense than 'treaties'.

• The state leaders formed a compact to address environmental issues collectively.
• They entered into a compact to share resources for the project.

An agreement between countries covering specific matters, often related to international law or customs.

• The Geneva Convention outlines the humane treatment of prisoners of war.
• The international convention on climate change has led to significant policy changes worldwide.