coordination
koh-or-duh-NAY-shun
/kəʊˌɔː.dɪˈneɪ.ʃən/
The organization of different elements or actors to work together effectively toward a common goal or shared standard.
In game theory, 'coordination games' feature multiple equilibria where players benefit from choosing matching decisions.
The story behind the word. Constructed from Latin 'co-' (together) and 'ordinare' (to arrange in rank or order). It originated in organizational contexts before game theorists used it to describe games where players profit by choosing matching choices.
Word relationships
- alignment: 'Alignment' stresses structural agreement or positioning, whereas 'coordination' emphasizes active, organized interaction.
- synchronization: 'Synchronization' focuses strictly on timing, while 'coordination' encompasses broader strategic harmony.
- misalignment: 'Misalignment' describes conflicting goals or directions among interacting parties.
- fragmentation: 'Fragmentation' denotes breaking apart into uncoordinated, competing factions.
Commonly confused with
- coercion: 'Coercion' means forcing someone via threats, while 'coordination' involves harmonizing actions.
Word family
- coordinate (verb): To bring different elements into a complex relationship or efficient order.
- coordinator (noun): A person who organizes people or activities.
Collocations
- coordination game
- coordination problem
- lack of coordination
- international coordination
Idioms & expressions
- on the same page
- pulling in the same direction
Example sentences
- "Successful coordination often depends on focal points that participants mutually recognize without direct communication." Strategic Coordination
- "The adoption of a standard charging port required international coordination among rival smartphone manufacturers." Industry Standards
Memory hook
CO-ORDINATION puts things into ORDER TOGETHER. Harmonize choices for joint success.
When not to use
Avoid confusing with 'collusion'; coordination can be completely transparent, legal, and socially beneficial.
Fun facts
- Which side of the road people drive on is a classic 'coordination game'—it does not matter which side is chosen, as long as everyone coordinates on the same side.
Related words
Explore more words
coordinate, concerted, alignment, logistics, mobilize, orchestrate
Also appears in
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