Y07W10VC Theme Words — Conflict & resolution

This module focuses on vocabulary connected to the theme of Conflict & resolution. The words in this set are used when discussing disagreements, tensions, negotiation, and the processes by which conflicts between people, groups, or nations are managed or resolved. Many of these terms appear in history, social studies and academic writing. Developing fluency with this vocabulary helps students engage critically with questions of power, diplomacy, and human relationships.

Word in Context (Theme: Conflict & resolution)

These three words connect to the theme of Conflict & resolution. As you read, notice how each word helps you discuss this topic with more precise, thoughtful language.

negotiate

/nɪˈɡəʊ.ʃi.eɪt/

ne‑go‑ti‑ate

verb | [negotiate – negotiated – negotiated]

To discuss and arrange terms for an agreement; to carry on discussion to reach a mutual understanding.

Word family: negotiates (v.), negotiation (n.), negotiator (n.)

Example: Countries negotiate trade agreements to ensure fair terms for both sides.

Synonyms: discuss, bargain, arrange

Collocations: negotiate terms, negotiate a deal, negotiate peace

compromise

/ˈkɒm.prə.maɪz/

com‑pro‑mise

noun | [compromise – compromised – compromised]

An agreement where each side gives up some demands to reach a settlement; a middle ground.

Word family: compromises (n. plural), compromised (adj.)

Example: Finding a compromise means both parties must be willing to accept less than they originally wanted.

Synonyms: agreement, settlement, middle ground

Collocations: reach a compromise, find a compromise, fair compromise

mediate

/ˈmiː.di.eɪt/

me‑di‑ate

verb | [mediate – mediated – mediated]

To intervene in a disagreement to help both sides reach an agreement; to help settle a dispute.

Word family: mediates (v.), mediation (n.), mediator (n.)

Example: A neutral third party can mediate between conflicting parties to help them find common ground.

Synonyms: intervene, referee, arbitrate

Collocations: mediate between, mediate conflict, mediate disputes

Academic Vocab

involve

/ɪnˈvɒlv/

in‑volve

verb | [involve – involved – involved]

To include something as a part; to require as a necessary part; to engage or draw into.

Word family: involves (v.), involved (adj.), involvement (n.)

Example: Resolving conflict often involves communication and understanding different viewpoints.

Synonyms: include, require, engage

Collocations: involve people, involve discussion, involve compromise

issue

/ˈɪs.juː/

is‑sue

noun

A topic of discussion or debate; a matter of concern or difficulty.

Word family: issues (n. plural), issued (v.)

Example: A key issue in resolving conflict is ensuring all parties feel heard and respected.

Synonyms: problem, topic, matter

Collocations: key issue, main issue, address an issue

labour

/ˈleɪ.bə/

la‑bour

noun

Work, especially physical work; effort expended to accomplish something.

Word family: labours (n. plural), labour (v.), laboured (adj.)

Example: Negotiators must labour to find solutions that satisfy all sides of a conflict.

Synonyms: work, effort, toil

Collocations: hard labour, labour disputes, labour relations

occur

/əˈkɜː/

oc‑cur

verb | [occur – occurred – occurred]

To happen or take place.

Word family: occurs (v.), occurrence (n.)

Example: Misunderstandings can occur when people do not communicate clearly.

Synonyms: happen, take place, arise

Collocations: occur when, occur during, occur as

obtain

/əbˈteɪn/

ob‑tain

verb | [obtain – obtained – obtained]

To get or acquire something; to succeed in getting or achieving.

Word family: obtains (v.), obtained (adj.)

Example: Parties to a conflict must work together to obtain a fair and lasting peace agreement.

Synonyms: get, acquire, achieve

Collocations: obtain agreement, obtain results, obtain permission

consequently

/ˈkɒn.sɪ.kwənt.li/

con‑se‑quent‑ly

connecting adverb

As a result; therefore; in consequence of something just mentioned.

Example: Poor communication led to conflict. Consequently, the team implemented new communication strategies.

Synonyms: therefore, as a result, thus

Collocations: consequently, resulted in, led to

Confusing Words

elicit vs illicit

Elicit' and 'illicit' are near-homophones (they sound very similar) and are frequently confused because of their similar pronunciation.

  • elicit — elicit' is a verb meaning to draw out a response or information from someone — for example, 'Teachers use questions to elicit student thinking.' or 'The investigation will elicit the truth about what happened.'
  • illicit — illicit' is an adjective meaning illegal or not permitted — for example, 'Illicit activities are not allowed in schools.' or 'Smuggling is an illicit trade.'

Memory rule: A quick way to keep them apart: elicit contains 'e' (like 'extract' or 'educate') — it draws something out; illicit starts with 'ill-' (like 'illegal') — it means not allowed.