What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
conciliation
Example
The company hired a conciliator to help resolve the labor dispute. [conciliation: noun]
Example
The two sides agreed to enter into conciliation talks to try and reach a settlement. [conciliation: adjective]
mediation
Example
The court ordered the parties to attend mediation to try and reach a settlement. [mediation: noun]
Example
The mediator helped the two sides come to an agreement on the terms of the contract. [mediator: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mediation is more commonly used than conciliation in legal contexts, while conciliation is more commonly used in non-legal contexts such as personal relationships or workplace conflicts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between conciliation and mediation?
Mediation is generally considered more formal than conciliation due to its use in legal contexts and the potential for legally binding outcomes.
