statesmanship
STAYTS-mun-ship
/ˈsteɪtsmənʃɪp/
Skill in managing public affairs or exercising great political leadership.
Unlike mere 'politics,' which can imply self-interest, statesmanship suggests a noble, long-term vision for the common good.
The story behind the word. The word combines 'state' (from Latin status, meaning 'condition' or 'standing') with the suffix '-ship,' which denotes a quality or profession. It emerged in the 16th century to describe the specific craft of those who steered the 'ship of state.'
Word relationships
- governance: Governance is the technical act of ruling, while statesmanship is the art and wisdom behind it.
- demagoguery: Demagoguery appeals to prejudices rather than rational statesmanship.
Commonly confused with
- politics: Politics is the struggle for power; statesmanship is the wise use of that power.
Word family
- statesman (noun): A skilled political leader.
- statesmanlike (adjective): Having the qualities of a statesman.
Collocations
- visionary statesmanship
- display statesmanship
- global statesmanship
Idioms & expressions
- elder statesman
Example sentences
- "His handling of the crisis was a masterpiece of statesmanship, balancing the needs of the people with the demands of the law." Describing a historical figure's ability to unite a country.
- "The difference between a politician and a statesman is that a politician thinks of the next election; a statesman, of the next generation." A quote regarding the nature of political leadership.
Memory hook
Think of a 'statesman' on a 'ship,' steering the entire country through a storm with calm wisdom. Steering the ship of state.
When not to use
Avoid using this for small-scale office politics; it implies a grand, national, or international scale.
Fun facts
- The term 'elder statesman' is often applied to retired leaders who still exert influence through their wisdom.
Related words
Explore more words
statecraft, diplomacy, realpolitik, oratory, leadership, govern
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