legation

word

Definition

A legation is a diplomatic office or mission in a foreign country that is lower in rank than an embassy, or refers to the staff who work there.

Usage & Nuances

Somewhat formal and old-fashioned; most countries now use 'embassy' for main diplomatic offices. 'Legation' is mainly found in historical or diplomatic contexts. Common collocation: 'the British Legation.' Not to be confused with 'delegation' (a group of representatives).

Example Sentences

The French legation was located in the city center.

basic

He worked for the British legation in Greece.

basic

The legation sent a letter to the government.

basic

Back in the 1800s, most countries only had a legation, not a full embassy.

natural

Rumors spread quickly through the city about the new legation opening.

natural

She’s writing a book about life inside the Danish legation in China.

natural