diplomatic

The word “diplomatic” means relating to relations between governments and their representatives. In plain terms, either about official relations between countries, or describing someone tactful who avoids causing offense.

“Diplomatic” is pronounced dihp-luh-MA-tihk (/ˌdɪpləˈmætɪk/ in IPA).

Here is “diplomatic” used in a sentence: “The two countries restored diplomatic relations after years of tension.”

“Diplomatic” is an adjective.

The word “diplomatic” comes from French. From French diplomatique, ultimately from the same root as "diplomat.".

“Diplomatic” is a fairly common word in modern English.

“Diplomatic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to relations between governments and their representatives.

"Tactful" means careful not to cause offence in personal or social situations, while "diplomatic" shares that sense but can also refer literally to relations between governments and their representatives. All tactful behaviour is diplomatic in the everyday sense, but "diplomatic" additionally carries a formal political meaning.

"Diplomatic" relates to relations between governments and their representatives, especially handling them tactfully, whereas "political" relates more broadly to government, power, and public affairs. A diplomatic solution stresses negotiation and tact, while a political one stresses power and policy.

Use "diplomatic" when the goal is to handle a sensitive matter tactfully and avoid causing offence, even if that means softening how the truth is put. "Honest" emphasises full truthfulness, so the two can pull in opposite directions when a blunt statement might upset someone.

"Diplomatic" often precedes nouns such as "diplomatic relations," "diplomatic immunity," "diplomatic mission," and "diplomatic solution." In the tactful sense, people also speak of a "diplomatic answer" or "diplomatic silence."