Coalition

Definition

Coalition refers to an alliance or partnership formed between different groups, organizations, or parties to achieve a common goal. It is often used in political, military, or organizational contexts where entities come together for a specific purpose, while still maintaining their distinct identities.

Parts of Speech

• Noun (a partnership or alliance between groups)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌkoʊəˈlɪʃən/
• Respelling: koh-uh-LISH-uhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌkəʊəˈlɪʃən/
• Respelling: koh-uh-LISH-uhn

Etymology

The word "coalition" comes from the Latin "coalitio," which means "to grow together" or "unite." It is derived from "coalescere" (to unite, combine), which is formed from "co-" (together) and "alescere" (to grow). The term entered English in the early 17th century, primarily used to describe political alliances or partnerships.

Derivatives

• Coalitionist (noun)
• Coalesce (verb)
• Coalescent (adjective)
• Coalitional (adjective)
• Coalescing (verb/adjective)

Synonyms

• Alliance
• Union
• Partnership

Antonyms

• Division
• Separation
• Disunity

Usage

The term "coalition" is commonly used in political, military, and organizational contexts. For instance, a political coalition might be formed between parties to pass a law, or a military coalition may consist of multiple countries working together to achieve a common defense goal. An example would be, "Several political parties formed a coalition to defeat the ruling government in the election."

Related Terms

• Alliance: A formal agreement between parties to work together for a common goal.
• Confederation: A union of groups or states with shared governance but independent identities.
• Partnership: A collaborative relationship between individuals or groups to achieve a shared goal.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An alliance formed between groups for a common purpose: Refers to entities working together while maintaining their independence.
  • Example: "The environmental groups formed a coalition to lobby for stronger climate change policies."
• A temporary partnership between political parties or states: Refers to a short-term alliance created to achieve a specific political or legislative goal.
  • Example: "The governing coalition collapsed after disagreements over the budget."