Conclusion
Appeasement is a term that is often used in political and diplomatic contexts. It refers to the act of giving in to someone’s demands in order to avoid conflict or trouble. Appeasement has been a controversial issue throughout history, with some arguing that it is a necessary tool for maintaining peace, while others believe that it only serves to embolden aggressors.
Definitions
The Oxford English Dictionary defines appeasement as “the action or process of appeasing; the state of being appeased; pacification, conciliation, or propitiation.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “the act of appeasing someone or something, especially by making concessions.”
Origin
The word “appeasement” comes from the Latin word “appetere,” which means “to seek after.” It was first used in English in the 16th century to describe the act of pacifying or calming someone down.
Meaning in different dictionaries
While the basic definition of appeasement is consistent across different dictionaries, there are slight variations in emphasis. For example, the Cambridge Dictionary emphasizes the idea of making someone less angry or aggressive, while the Collins Dictionary emphasizes the idea of making concessions to avoid conflict.
Associations
Appeasement is often associated with the policy of British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain in the lead-up to World War II. Chamberlain famously appeased Adolf Hitler by allowing him to annex parts of Czechoslovakia in 1938, in the hopes of avoiding war. However, this policy ultimately failed, and Hitler went on to launch a full-scale invasion of Poland in 1939.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of appeasement include pacification, conciliation, placation, and mollification.
Antonyms
Antonyms of appeasement include aggression, confrontation, defiance, and resistance.
The same root words
Other words that share the same root as appeasement include appetite, appetizer, and appetence.
Example Sentences
- The government’s policy of appeasement has been criticized by many as weak and ineffective.
- The company offered a generous settlement in an attempt to appease the angry customers.
- The teacher tried to appease the disruptive student by allowing him to take a break and calm down.
- The president’s efforts to appease the opposition party were met with skepticism and distrust.
Appeasement is a complex and controversial concept that has been debated throughout history. While it can be an effective tool for avoiding conflict and maintaining peace, it can also be seen as a sign of weakness or a failure to stand up for one’s principles. Ultimately, the decision to appease or confront a situation depends on a variety of factors, including the potential risks and benefits, the nature of the conflict, and the values and priorities of the individuals involved.