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conciliatory

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "conciliatory": Conciliatory describes an attitude or action intended to pacify, soothe, or settle a disagreement. I

What does "conciliatory" mean?

Conciliatory describes an attitude or action intended to pacify, soothe, or settle a disagreement. Imagine someone who is currently in a heated argument suddenly lowering their voice, opening their hands, and offering a compromise to bridge the gap between two opposing sides. This word is most often used in professional, political, or serious interpersonal contexts where tension is high. It suggests a desire to end hostility and reach a state of peace, often by making concessions. It is frequently paired with terms like "gesture," "tone," or "approach."

"conciliatory" in conversation

Office conflict

I know we’ve been arguing about the budget for hours. I’d like to offer a more conciliatory proposal to get us moving again.

I know we’ve been arguing about the budget for hours. I’d like to offer a more conciliatory proposal to get us moving again.

That sounds much better, thank you for being flexible.

That sounds much better, thank you for being flexible.

Used to signal a shift from confrontation to cooperation.

Diplomatic tension

The ambassador’s speech today was surprisingly conciliatory.

The ambassador’s speech today was surprisingly conciliatory.

I agree, he seems ready to end the trade dispute.

I agree, he seems ready to end the trade dispute.

Describes a tone that aims to de-escalate international or formal friction.

"conciliatory" in a sentence

  1. She gave a conciliatory smile to calm the room.

    She gave a conciliatory smile to calm the room.

  2. The union leader adopted a conciliatory tone during the contract negotiations.

    The union leader adopted a conciliatory tone during the contract negotiations.

  3. Despite his previous aggression, he made a conciliatory gesture by returning the stolen documents.

    Despite his previous aggression, he made a conciliatory gesture by returning the stolen documents.

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