diplomatically

[dip-luh-mat-ik-lee]

adverb

1. in a way that relates to or makes use of diplomacy, or negotiations and other relations between nations.

   Earlier, attempts had been made to solve the dispute diplomatically through the Organization of American States.

2. delicately or tactfully, so as not to offend.

   Even negative opinions or criticism can be framed positively and diplomatically.

Other Word Forms

• nondiplomatically adverb
• quasi-diplomatically adverb
• undiplomatically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of diplomatically¹

diplomatic ( def. ) + -ally ( def. )

Example Sentences

The goal is to make the island’s position so economically, diplomatically and psychologically unbearable that negotiation with the Chinese leadership becomes the only viable option.

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“I wouldn’t disagree, my lady,” Margaret replied diplomatically, for who would dare contradict Lady Constance?

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It demanded the immediate release of the hostages and the dismantlement of Hamas—which will either be dismantled diplomatically or destroyed militarily.

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Almost immediately, Arab mediators seeking a ceasefire in Gaza engaged diplomatically with the Houthis, who they feared were encouraging Hamas to avoid making concessions towards a truce.

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For many years, the broad convention has been that senior politicians who want to get near government keep their mouths diplomatically shut about the royals, aside from bland praise, or supportive quiet murmuring.

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