reconciliation

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'reconciliation' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to refer to the process of reconciling or restoring a relationship between two people or groups who were previously in conflict. Example sentence: The two sides negotiated for months, and eventually reached a successful reconciliation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The move by the leaders of Germany and France, who were upset by Cameron's initial plan to deliver his speech on the same day as their celebration marking their historic post-war reconciliation, means negotiations could take place earlier than No 10 had expected.

The Guardian

With the press threatening to cut up rough, Alastair Campbell staged a reconciliation between them for the cameras.

The Guardian - Opinion

What the Castlederg controversy tells us is that in the quest for a proper post-conflict truth and reconciliation process even history is a loaded gun.

The Guardian

Armenians want restoration of their historic lands in eastern Turkey, which is asking too much (although I have suggested that the majestic Mount Ararat, overlooking Yerevan, might be handed over by Turkey as an act of reconciliation).

The Guardian - Books

"The politicians are behind this across party lines...we've got a situation where the largest number of Australians are joining in the reconciliation movement".

The Guardian

The president highlighted the significance of Europe in underpinning the Anglo-Irish reconciliation as he quoted Tom Kettle, the Irish nationalist MP and poet who wrote of the Anglo-Irish destiny in Europe before his death on the western front in 1916.

The Guardian

Higgins quoted Kettle as saying: "This tragedy of Europe may be and must be the prologue to the two reconciliations of which all statesmen have dreamed – the reconciliation of Protestant Ulster with Ireland and the reconciliation of Ireland with Great Britain".

The Guardian

But standing at the same spot in the Long Gallery where Angela Merkel pleaded with Britain less than two months ago to remain in the EU, Higgins suggested that the reconciliation had been helped by the UK and the Irish Republic's joint membership of the EU.

The Guardian

Howard, by then a cautious convert to the importance of symbolism to advance reconciliation, proposed a policy of constitutional recognition at the 2007 election but by then he'd run out of time in the Lodge.

The Guardian

A Farc commander best known by his alias Ivan Marquez said the biggest achievement so far had been a growing sense of reconciliation among Colombians.

The Guardian

Together, they engaged the Soviets in talks that began the process of east-west reconciliation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "reconciliation", provide context on the previous state of conflict or disagreement to highlight the significance of the restored relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "reconciliation" superficially; ensure the described situation involves a genuine restoration of goodwill and not merely a temporary truce.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "reconciliation" is that of a noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, it refers to the act of reestablishing friendly relations or resolving conflicts. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in describing post-conflict processes and personal relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reconciliation" is a versatile and commonly used noun referring to the restoration of friendly relations, particularly after conflict. As Ludwig AI affirms, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted. The examples provided by Ludwig predominantly come from News & Media sources, which indicates its relevance in discussions of political and social harmony. While it maintains a neutral tone suitable for formal and informal contexts, it should be used with awareness of the deep implications of restoring relationships. Alternatives like "harmonious settlement" or "amicable resolution" can offer a nuanced expression depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolution of conflict

Directly addresses the act of resolving a dispute or struggle.

settling differences

Highlights the act of resolving disagreements and disputes.

peaceful resolution

Stresses the non-violent and tranquil nature of the outcome.

restoration of harmony

Highlights the return to a state of balance and agreement.

amicable resolution

Focuses on the friendly and cooperative aspect of resolving differences.

restoring relations

Focuses on the act of bringing back positive interactions.

harmonious settlement

Emphasizes the peaceful and agreeable nature of the resolution.

bridging divides

Emphasizes the action of connecting or uniting parties that were previously separated.

rapprochement

A formal term indicating the establishment of cordial relations.

making amends

Emphasizes the act of correcting past wrongs to improve relations.

FAQs

How can I use "reconciliation" in a sentence?

Use "reconciliation" to describe the process of restoring friendly relations, such as: "The peace talks aimed for "lasting reconciliation" between the warring factions."

What are some alternatives to the word "reconciliation"?

Alternatives include "harmonious settlement", "restoration of harmony", or "amicable resolution", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "reconciliation" and "appeasement"?

"Reconciliation" involves a genuine restoration of goodwill and understanding, while "appeasement" often implies making concessions to avoid conflict without resolving underlying issues.

Is "reconciliation" only used in political contexts?

No, while often used in political and international relations, "reconciliation" can also apply to personal relationships, business disputes, and other areas where restoring harmony is the goal.