alliance

/əˈlaɪ.əns/
nounIntermediate
formal

A union or association formed for mutual benefit, especially between countries, organizations, or individuals with shared interests or goals.

The two nations formed a military alliance to strengthen their defense capabilities.

The two nations formed a military alliance to strengthen their defense capabilities.

The tech companies formed an alliance to promote open-source software development.

The tech companies formed an alliance to promote open-source software development.

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Alliances can be formal (e.g., treaties) or informal (e.g., strategic partnerships).

Collocations

form an allianceto create a partnership or unionstrategic alliancea partnership formed to achieve specific business or political goalsmilitary alliancea formal agreement between countries for mutual defense

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

alliance of conveniencephrase
a temporary partnership formed for mutual benefit, often without long-term commitment
alliance systemphrase
a network of formal agreements between nations or organizations

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Alliances

Alliances can be formal (e.g., treaties) or informal (e.g., business partnerships). Context determines the appropriate usage.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

Use 'alliance' in formal contexts, such as politics or business, to describe strategic partnerships.

📖Word Origin

From Middle French 'alliance,' from Old French 'alier' (to join), from Latin 'alligare' (to bind).

📝Usage Notes

The term is often used in political, military, and business contexts to describe formal or informal agreements.

Word Breakdown

alliance
a formal or informal union for mutual benefit
root
English Dictionary