mindmap root((联盟)) alliance applies to an association formed for the mutual benefit of its members: an ~ between feminists and religious groups against pornography. league suggests a more formal compact often with a definite goal: the ~ of Nations; and may be used to suggest an association for a bad end: in ~ with the devil. coalition applies to a temporary association of parties often of opposing interests: formed a ~ government with two other parties. confederation applies to a union of independent states under a central government to which powers dealing with common external relations are delegated: the ~ formed by American colonies. federation implies any union under the terms of a league or covenant, and especially a sovereign power formed by a union of states and having a central government and several state and local governments: the United States of America constitutes a ~.