Sondierungsgespräch

exploratory coalition talks

noun zon-DEER-ungs-ge-shpraekh Rare

Also means

preliminary negotiations

Usage Note

Sondierungsgespräch refers to the initial, non-binding talks parties hold after an election to test whether a coalition is feasible, before starting formal Koalitionsverhandlungen. The term became widely known after every German federal election since 2005.

Examples

"Die Sondierungsgespräche zwischen CDU und FDP scheiterten nach drei Wochen."

Natural Translation

The exploratory coalition talks between the CDU and FDP failed after three weeks.

Literal Translation

The exploratory-talks between CDU and FDP failed after three weeks.

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