WordValetreaty
a formal agreement between countries
In more detail
1. (noun) a formal agreement between two or more countries, usually about peace, trade, or other important matters
2. (noun) a written agreement between people or groups on any subject
Examples
- 1. The two countries signed a peace treaty after the war ended.
- 2. The business treaty outlined the terms of the partnership between the companies.
How to use treaty
Treaty is a formal, legal term used primarily for agreements between nations (sense 1) or sometimes between significant parties (sense 2). It carries weight and implies binding obligations. While synonyms like 'agreement' and 'accord' are more general, 'treaty' specifically suggests an official, documented arrangement of considerable importance. 'Pact' and 'covenant' are more literary or emphatic alternatives.
Common phrases
- sign a treaty
- ratify a treaty
- breach a treaty
- bilateral treaty
- international treaty
- peace treaty
Synonyms
agreement · accord · pact · compact · covenant
Word family
treaties (plural)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 'treaty' with 'treat' (a reward or luxury), leading to spelling or pronunciation errors; also, 'treaty' is not used for casual or informal agreements—use 'agreement' or 'deal' instead.
Save this word in WordVale and it comes back for review right before you'd forget it — with pronunciation, real examples, and optional translations. One purchase, no subscription.
Get WordValeFREE 7-DAY TRIAL · iPHONE & iPAD