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Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing

detente

noun / day-TAHNT / Hard
Meaning

An easing of strained relations, especially between hostile nations, achieved through diplomacy.

Origin / Etymology

From French 'detente' (a loosening or relaxation), from Latin 'detendere' (to slacken).

Synonyms
reconciliation thaw easing relaxation
Antonyms
hostility escalation confrontation antagonism
Example Sentence
"The resumption of border talks signalled a cautious detente between the two neighbours after years of tension."
🎯 UPSC Usage

Deploy in GS Paper 2 answers on international relations and the Cold War in GS Paper 1. Use it for phases of easing between rival powers, confidence-building measures along the border, and diplomacy that lowers the risk of conflict without full normalisation.

Relevant Subjects
International Relations
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