Definition

1. Noun:
   • A permanent diplomatic mission headed by a minister: A legation is an official diplomatic office and residence, representing a government in a foreign country, typically of a lower rank than an embassy and led by a minister rather than an ambassador.
   • The post or office of a legate: This refers to the official position, function, or term of service of a diplomatic representative, known as a legate.

Usage

• The term "legation" is used in the context of international relations and diplomacy. It specifically denotes a type of diplomatic mission and the building that houses it. Historically, legations were more common before the mid-20th century, when many countries upgraded their legations to embassies.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The Swiss legation in Washington, D.C., handled diplomatic affairs before the mission was elevated to an embassy.
  • He was appointed to head the legation in the capital city.
  • The attack on the foreign legation sparked an international crisis.

Advanced Usage

• "Legation quarter": A historical term referring to a designated district in a city, especially in Beijing, China, where numerous foreign legations were located.
  • During the Boxer Rebellion, foreigners sought refuge in the Beijing Legation Quarter.

Variants and Related Words

• Legate (n): The chief diplomatic representative heading a legation; a minister.
  • The papal legate was sent to mediate the dispute.
• Legatine (adj): Pertaining to a legate or legation.

Synonyms

• Diplomatic mission: A general term for a group of diplomats representing their country abroad.
• Mission: Often used interchangeably with legation in historical contexts.
• Delegation: A group sent to represent or negotiate, but not necessarily a permanent diplomatic post.

Antonyms

• Embassy: A higher-ranking diplomatic mission headed by an ambassador. (Note: An embassy is a different rank, not a direct opposite in meaning.)

Noun

1. a permanent diplomatic mission headed by a minister
2. the post or office of legate