Meaning & use
tripartite
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Meanings
adjectivebefore a noun
Involving three separate groups, countries, or organizations that each take part.
Grammar: Used before a noun, like 'a tripartite agreement'; it is not usually used after a verb.
Patterns
- tripartite agreement
- tripartite talks
- tripartite structure
The three countries signed a tripartite agreement to share the river's water.
Tripartite talks between the government, unions, and employers will begin next week.
A tripartite committee was formed to oversee the project.
adjectivebefore a noun
Consisting of three parts or sections.
Grammar: Used before a noun to describe something that has three parts, such as a document or system.
Patterns
- tripartite system
- tripartite division
- tripartite structure
The constitution establishes a tripartite system of government.
The report is divided into a tripartite structure: introduction, analysis, and recommendations.
The tripartite division of the region dates back to the 19th century.
Common combinations
- tripartite agreement
- The tripartite agreement was signed by all three nations.
- tripartite talks
- Tripartite talks resumed after a long break.
- tripartite structure
- The tripartite structure of the organization ensures balanced representation.
- tripartite division
- The tripartite division of powers is a key feature of the system.
Synonyms and how they differ
- three-party
- More everyday and often used for political or legal contexts, e.g. 'a three-party coalition'.
- trilateral
- Similar but typically used for relations between three countries or sides, e.g. 'trilateral trade talks'.
Word family
- tripartism noun
- The practice or system of having three parties involved, especially in industrial relations.
Commonly confused: tripartite or bipartite? tripartite or partisan?
tripartite vs bipartite
Means involving two parties, not three. 'Bipartite' is for two; 'tripartite' is for three.
tripartite vs partisan
Means strongly supporting one party or cause; it does not mean divided into three parts.
Practice
The three countries signed a _____ agreement to protect the rainforest.
Choose one answer.
The context says three countries, so 'tripartite' is correct. 'Bipartite' means two parties, 'partisan' means biased, and 'trilateral' is also possible but less common and often used for relations between three sides rather than a formal agreement among three parties.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “tripartite”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.