WordValediplomatic
tactful in dealing with people
In more detail
1. (adjective) relating to the work of maintaining peaceful relations between countries
2. (adjective) skilled at dealing with people without causing offense or conflict
Examples
- 1. The two countries are trying to resolve the dispute through diplomatic channels.
- 2. She gave a diplomatic answer that didn't upset anyone in the room.
How to use diplomatic
Diplomatic has two related senses: the primary one refers to international relations and official government dealings (diplomatic missions, diplomatic protocol), while the secondary meaning applies to interpersonal interactions where someone handles a sensitive situation smoothly and considerately. In both contexts, it emphasizes tact and the avoidance of confrontation or offense.
Common phrases
- diplomatic relations
- diplomatic immunity
- diplomatic corps
- diplomatic channels
- diplomatic crisis
- diplomatic approach
Synonyms
tactful · discreet · judicious · politic · strategic
Opposites
blunt · tactless · offensive
Word family
diplomat (noun) · diplomacy (noun) · diplomatically (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse diplomatic immunity with legal exemption from all laws, when it actually refers to a specific privilege protecting diplomats from legal prosecution in their host country for official acts.
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