bridge-building

Creating connection across gaps

Bridge-building in its literal sense is the construction of structures that span rivers, valleys, or other obstacles.

More often the term appears figuratively, describing efforts to establish connections or improve relations between people or groups who are divided or in conflict.

A bridge-builder works to create understanding where there was none: The diplomat was known for her bridge-building between hostile factions.

Bridge-building emphasizes process and effort rather than completed reconciliation.

diplomacy

negotiation

Discussion seeking mutual accord

rapport · alliance · dialogue · cooperation · trust · outreach · engagement · goodwill · compromise · understanding

construction

span

Distance between endpoints

  • girderMain structural support beam
  • trussLoad-bearing beam arrangement
  • abutmentLoad-bearing end structure

pylon · deck · cantilever · suspension · arch · pontoon · scaffolding · engineering · foundations · load-bearing

cultural

intercultural

Between different cultures

tolerance · interfaith · cross-cultural · multicultural · dialogue · inclusion · heritage · ambassador · immersion · global citizenship

teamwork

collaboration

Joint intellectual work

communication · linking · integration · relationship · synergy · cohesion · inclusion · mutual respect · cross-functional · interdepartmental

Categories
Opposites
relationship cultivation

bridge-buildingburning bridges

Ruining relationships irreparably

severing ties · breaking ties · cutting ties · alienation · estrangement

conflict approach

bridge-buildingwarmongering

Promoting or inciting warfare

antagonism · escalation · divisiveness · provocation · confrontation

social orientation

bridge-buildingisolationism

Policy avoiding foreign alliances

exclusion · tribalism · segregation · insularity · parochialism

Family

build, bridge, building, builder, brig

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G