Words / B2

dipl-uh-MAT-ik/ˌdɪpləˈmætɪk/

Diplomatic means to do with relations between states: a diplomatic source; diplomatic immunity. It also means tactful. Diplomat is the person. Undiplomatic is blunt. Do not call a private apology diplomatic immunity. UK news: diplomatic tensions, embassy staff.

Meaning

Connected with managing relations between countries; also skilfully tactful.

Examples

• “A diplomatic source said the talks were close to collapse.”
• “A diplomatic email would have thanked the host before listing complaints, which is the tact sense.”

Good to know

diplomatic talks / sources / immunity. Person: diplomat. Tactful: a diplomatic remark. Opposite: undiplomatic.

Near in meaning

tactful

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