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A formal discussion between people who are trying to reach an agreement.
The union entered into negotiations with the company over working conditions.
The union started formal discussions with the company about how employees work.
After months of negotiation, they finally signed the contract.
After many months of talking, they agreed on the terms and signed the document.
Often used in business, law, and diplomacy contexts.
The process of finding a compromise between different parties.
Buying a house involves a lot of back-and-forth negotiation.
When purchasing a home, there are many discussions to agree on a fair price.
Can refer to any situation where people try to agree on something.
Reserve 'negotiation' for serious discussions where both parties have power to influence the outcome. For casual chats, use 'discussion' or 'talk'.
A negotiation is not a lecture or a demand; both sides must be willing to compromise.
From Latin *negotiatio(n-)*, from *negotiari* meaning 'to carry on business', from *negotium* 'business, work', from *nec* 'not' + *otium* 'leisure'. First used in English in the 15th century.
Used for serious discussions where both sides have something to gain or lose. Avoid using for casual conversations or minor decisions.