Negotiations

/nɪˌɡoʊʃiˈeɪʃənz/ noun

Definition

Plural of negotiation; discussions between people or groups trying to reach an agreement or compromise.

Etymology

From Latin 'negotiatio,' derived from 'negotiari' (to do business), which comes from 'negotium' (business, literally 'not leisure'—nego- 'not' + otium 'leisure'). Romans saw business as the opposite of free time!

Kelly Says

The word 'negotiation' originally meant 'not leisure'—the Romans literally called business 'non-leisure'! This reveals something fascinating about how different cultures viewed work: Romans saw commerce as the opposite of relaxation, while we now talk about 'work-life balance.'

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