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statecraft

/ˌsteɪtˈkræft/
IPA guide

The ability to be a savvy and effective political leader is statecraft. If the President isn't skilled at statecraft, he or she will have a hard time accomplishing anything.

A lot goes into statecraft, which is sometimes called "the art of governing." Political experience, diplomacy, and leadership skills are all essential to statecraft. The ultimate goal of statecraft depends on who is practicing it; for some it's power and for others it's world peace. The word statecraft has been used in English since the 17th century.

Definitions of statecraft
  1. noun
    wisdom in the management of public affairs
    see moresee less
    type of:
    wisdom, wiseness
    the trait of utilizing knowledge and experience with common sense and insight
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