Definition

Noun: A unified position or collective stance adopted by multiple distinct individuals, groups, or organizations, often with differing individual interests, in order to achieve a shared objective, typically in a negotiation, conflict, or political context.

Usage

The term "common front" is used to describe a strategic alliance where separate entities temporarily set aside their differences to present a united, coordinated position. It is most commonly used in discussions of labor relations, politics, and diplomacy.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The opposition parties formed a common front to challenge the new legislation.
  • During the crisis, the community groups established a common front to demand better services from the city council.
  • The reference example states: "the unions presented a common front at the bargaining table."

Advanced Usage

• "To present/show a common front": This is the most frequent collocation, meaning to display unity publicly.
  • The allied nations worked hard to present a common front during the peace talks.
• "To maintain a common front": To keep the alliance unified over time, often despite internal pressures.
  • It was difficult for the coalition to maintain a common front as the election approached.

Variants and Related Words

• Coalition (n): A temporary alliance for combined action, especially of political parties forming a government. (A is often the structural result of forming a .)
• Unified front (n): A very similar phrase meaning a position of complete unity. (This is often used interchangeably with .)
• Solidarity (n): Unity or agreement of feeling or action, especially among individuals with a common interest. ( is the spirit or principle; a is the practical manifestation of it.)

Synonyms

• United front
• Unified stance
• Collective position
• Alliance (in this specific strategic sense)

Antonyms

• Disunity
• Fragmentation
• Division

Related Idioms/Phrases

• "To close ranks": To unite in order to defend shared interests, often used in military or organizational contexts. This idiom conveys a similar idea of presenting a unified exterior.
  • When criticized, the members of the club closed ranks to support their leader.

Noun

1. a movement in which several individuals or groups with different interests join together
   • the unions presented a common front at the bargaining table