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

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

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

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.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

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.

Read more on BBC

But in her letter, Robison has made the case that the visit was "diplomatically significant".

Read more on BBC

“Obviously, there’s been things with the bullpen,” Roberts said diplomatically.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal