rapprochement

Language: en

🇺🇸 /ˌræˌproʊˈʃmɑn/

📖 Definitions

  1. noun
    The establishment or resumption of harmonious relations between countries, groups, or individuals, especially after a period of conflict or estrangement.; A reconciliation or restoration of friendly relations between parties that were previously in disagreement or opposition.

🔗 Details

Word forms

countable Plural: rapprochements

Collocations

rapprochement betweenrapprochement withseek rapprochementmove toward rapprochementa rapprochement

Synonyms

reconciliationdétentenormalizationrapprochement

Antonyms

estrangementalienationhostilityconfrontation

Commonly confused

détente
EN: 'Détente' specifically refers to the easing of geopolitical tensions (especially Cold War era), while 'rapprochement' emphasizes the active re-establishment of friendly relations.
reconciliation
EN: 'Reconciliation' is broader and applies to personal, legal, and interpersonal contexts; 'rapprochement' is typically used in diplomatic or political contexts.

Spelling tips

EN: Remember the double 'p' and the French suffix '-ement' (not '-ment'). The acute accent on the 'e' (rapprochement) is often omitted in English usage but is technically correct.

💬 Examples

  1. The diplomatic rapprochement between the two nations led to the signing of a historic peace treaty.

  2. After years of bitter rivalry, the two political parties began a cautious rapprochement ahead of the elections.