allier

Allier means to combine two qualities or things harmoniously (allier tradition et modernité) or, historically and politically, to enter into an alliance (s'allier avec un autre pays). The reflexive s'allier is the one used for political or military alliances.

• Ce quartier allie charme ancien et confort moderne. — This neighborhood combines old-world charm and modern comfort.
• Les deux pays se sont alliés contre un ennemi commun. — The two countries allied against a common enemy.
• Elle allie rigueur et créativité dans son travail. — She combines rigor and creativity in her work.

Learners reach for combiner for every kind of combining, but allier specifically suggests a harmonious or strategic union of two things or parties — combiner is more neutral and mechanical, without that sense of complementary balance.

Often confused with combiner.