What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
detente
Example
The two countries signed a treaty to promote detente and reduce the risk of war. [detente: noun]
Example
The leaders engaged in a series of talks to achieve detente and avoid further conflict. [detente: verb]
thaw
Example
The sun's warmth caused the snow to thaw and reveal the green grass beneath. [thaw: verb]
Example
After months of tension, there was finally a thaw in their relationship and they began to communicate more openly. [thaw: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thaw is more commonly used than detente in everyday language, as it has a broader range of meanings and can be applied to various contexts. Detente is more specialized and often used in academic or political discourse.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between detente and thaw?
Detente is a more formal word than thaw, as it has a specific historical and political context. It is often used in diplomatic or academic settings, while thaw is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
