diplomatic

adjective

ˌdi-plə-ˈma-tik How to pronounce diplomatic (audio)
Definition of diplomaticnext
as in politic
having or showing tact a diplomatic attempt at preventing any hurt feelings

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How is the word diplomatic different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of diplomatic are bland, politic, smooth, suave, and urbane. While all these words mean "pleasantly tactful and well-mannered," diplomatic stresses an ability to deal with ticklish situations tactfully.

a diplomatic negotiator

Where would bland be a reasonable alternative to diplomatic?

The words bland and diplomatic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bland emphasizes mildness of manner and absence of irritating qualities.

a bland master of ceremonies

When is politic a more appropriate choice than diplomatic?

While in some cases nearly identical to diplomatic, politic implies shrewd as well as tactful and suave handling of people.

a cunningly politic manager

When would smooth be a good substitute for diplomatic?

While the synonyms smooth and diplomatic are close in meaning, smooth suggests often a deliberately assumed suavity.

a smooth salesman

When might suave be a better fit than diplomatic?

The words suave and diplomatic can be used in similar contexts, but suave suggests a specific ability to deal with others easily and without friction.

a suave public relations coordinator

In what contexts can urbane take the place of diplomatic?

Although the words urbane and diplomatic have much in common, urbane implies high cultivation and poise coming from wide social experience.

an urbane traveler

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of diplomatic Along with handling the pope’s recovery, the Vance visit is a diplomatic tightrope act for the Vatican. —Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 18 Apr. 2025 The move got mixed reviews in diplomatic circles, as critics worried it could be used as an excuse for the country to invade Haiti. —Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2025 Celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Switzerland, this year’s festival has designated Switzerland as its Country of Honor. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 17 Apr. 2025 On Wednesday, Van Hollen arrived in the Salvadoran capital on a bright, breezy day and was quickly ushered through a diplomatic exit from the airport. —Will Carless, USA Today, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for diplomatic

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Cite this Entry

“Diplomatic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/diplomatic. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

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