English Reference
Adjective

conciliatory

adj.
C1 Advanced US /kənˈsɪˌɫiəˌtɔɹi/ UK /kənsˈɪlɪətəɹˌi/ con·cil·ia·to·ry

adj.describing something you say or do to show you want to end an argument. It is a way of being friendly or peaceful after a disagreement.

adj.intended or likely to placate or pacify. Often describes gestures, remarks, or tones used to reconcile differences or reduce hostility.


SIMPLE

He made a conciliatory gesture by offering to pay for the meal.

CONTEXTUAL

After weeks of heated debate, the manager took a conciliatory tone to help the team reach a compromise.

COMPLEX

The diplomat’s conciliatory remarks were carefully crafted to acknowledge the opposition's grievances without conceding the government's primary legal position.

Usage

Often used to modify nouns like 'tone', 'gesture', 'approach', or 'remark'.

Yet that conciliatory tone stood in contrast to the tension that had gripped the race just days earlier, after a relatively quiet run-up to the August 13 vote.

Al Jazeera· 18 Aug 2026

He was hard when necessary, but always ready with a grin and a conciliatory word.

The Guardian· 7 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated