Negotiation

Definition

Negotiation is the process by which two or more parties discuss and come to a consensus or agreement about a particular matter.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɪˌɡoʊʃiˈeɪʃən/
• Respelling: ni-GOH-shee-AY-shuhn (with "ni" as in "nit," "GOH" as in "go," "shee" as in "she," "AY" as in "pay," and "shuhn" as in "nation")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɪˌɡəʊʃiˈeɪʃən/
• Respelling: ni-GOH-shee-AY-shuhn (similar to American English, with "ni" as in "nit," "GOH" as in "go," "shee" as in "she," "AY" as in "pay," and "shuhn" as in "nation")

In both dialects, "negotiation" places the primary stress on the third syllable from the end, "AY." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "ni-GOH-shee-AY-shuhn."

Etymology

The term "negotiation" comes from the Latin verb "negotiari" meaning "to carry on business," which in turn is derived from the noun 'negotium', a combination of 'neg-' meaning "not" and 'otium' signifying "leisure."

Derivatives

• Negotiator
• Negotiative
• Negotiability
• Negotiant
• Negotiatress

Synonyms

• Discussion
• Deliberation
• Parley

Antonyms

• Dictate
• Command
• Decree

Usage

"Negotiation" primarily denotes a process where discussions are held with the aim of reaching an agreement.

• International negotiations on climate change have been ongoing for years.
• Salary negotiations can be a stressful part of job interviews.
• The company is in the middle of negotiations to acquire a smaller firm.

Related Terms

• Mediation
• Arbitration
• Dialogue
• Consultation

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Process of Discussing an Agreement: A formal discussion by parties intending to reach an understanding, resolve differences, or gain an advantage in the outcome.‍
• Example: The peace treaty was a result of years of intensive negotiation.

• The Action or Process of Transferring Legal Documents: The act or process of discussing terms to finalize the transfer of certain legal instruments.‍
• Example: The negotiation of the bond was handled by the bank.

• The Consideration of a Matter with a View to Its Improvement or Alteration: Analyzing or examining something with the intent to make adjustments or changes.
• ‍Example: The manuscript is under negotiation with the editors.