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Confederation - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A confederation is a union of independent states or groups that join together for a common purpose while retaining their individual sovereignty. It is often formed for political or economic cooperation.

confederation

/kənˌfɛdəˈreɪʃən/ /kənˌfɛdəˈreɪʃən/

Definition:

A union of states or groups united for a common purpose while retaining some independence.

Synonyms:

alliance, federation, league, coalition

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

separation, division

Common Collocations:

political confederation, loose confederation, form a confederation, join a confederation

Derivatives:

confederate, confederative

Usage Tips:

Use "confederation" to describe a cooperative alliance where members retain autonomy, unlike a centralized federation.

Common Phrases:

Articles of Confederation, Swiss Confederation, confederation of states

Etymology:

From Latin "con-" (together) + "foederare" (to ally), via French "confédération."

Examples:

  • 1. The European Union began as an economic confederation before deepening integration.
  • 2. The Iroquois Confederacy was a powerful Native American confederation in North America.
  • 3. Canada was originally a confederation of British colonies before becoming a unified country.
  • 4. The trade unions formed a temporary confederation to negotiate better wages collectively.

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