rapprochement
rap-rohsh-MAWN
/ˌræproʊʃˈmɒ̃/
An establishment or resumption of harmonious relations, especially between two countries.
Specifically refers to the process of becoming friendly again after a period of tension or conflict.
The story behind the word. From the French 'rapprocher' (to bring near again). It describes the delicate process of bringing two parties 'near' to each other again after they have been distant or hostile.
Word relationships
- reconciliation: Reconciliation is a more general term for restoring friendly relations.
- entente: Entente is the state of understanding, while rapprochement is the process of reaching it.
- estrangement: Estrangement is the state of being no longer on friendly terms or part of a social group.
Commonly confused with
- detente: Detente is the easing of hostility or strained relations; rapprochement is the actual establishment of friendly relations.
Word family
- rapprochements (noun): Plural form of rapprochement.
Collocations
- seek rapprochement
- signs of rapprochement
- policy of rapprochement
- fragile rapprochement
Example sentences
- "The rapprochement between the United States and China in the early 1970s changed the course of the Cold War." Diplomacy
- "There are signs of a rapprochement between the two rival factions within the party." Politics
Memory hook
Rapprochement is 're-approaching' a friend after a fight. Near again.
When not to use
Do not use for the very first time two parties meet; it implies a return to a better state.
Fun facts
- The word is a direct loan from French and retains its French-style pronunciation in English.
Explore more words
reconciliation, reconcile, conciliation, accord, amicable, rapport
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