German - English
Definition of kanonenboot-diplomatie in German English dictionary
- gunboat diplomacy
- The pursuit of foreign policy objectives with the aid of conspicuous displays of military power
The British and French, who had sought to make policy by reviving 19th century gunboat diplomacy, had temporarily lost their credentials for world statesmanship.
- Diplomacy involving intimidation by threat or use of military force: "in the days when gunboat diplomacy was a more accepted tool of world powers" (Christian Science Monitor)