WordValedétente
an easing of hostility between countries
In more detail
1. (noun) a reduction in tension or hostility between countries or groups
2. (noun) a period of improved relations between rival nations
Examples
- 1. The two countries announced a détente after years of conflict.
- 2. The Cold War détente of the 1970s eased tensions between the United States and Soviet Union.
How to use détente
Détente describes a significant reduction in hostility, especially between rival powers or nations, and often implies a deliberate effort to improve relations. It carries diplomatic weight and typically refers to international or intergroup contexts rather than personal relationships. The term is most commonly used historically (notably for US-Soviet relations in the 1970s) but remains relevant in contemporary geopolitics.
Common phrases
- period of détente
- cold war détente
- détente between nations
- diplomatic détente
- détente holds
Synonyms
easing of tension · relaxation · thaw · rapprochement · reconciliation
Opposites
escalation · antagonism · confrontation
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse détente with peace—détente is a reduction in tension that falls short of genuine peace or alliance, representing an intermediate state of coexistence.
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