Under most circumstances, the two are the same, as John says. There is a little difference in nuance and use. If I say 'armistice', I am implying that two armies have stopped hostilities for the purpose of discussing permanent peace terms. If the word 'truce' is used, I tend to think of it as more temporary, even though it might indeed lead to permanent peace terms. A truce might be declared to let both armies collect their wounded. I would not use 'armistice' in that case, even though the definition is technically correct. Also, if two people have a heated argument and decide to stop the argument for a later time, we say that they have declared a truce. "I STILL think you're wrong." "OK, truce. I'm tired of arguing, let's just go back home and start again later." I would not use 'armistice' to describe that, since there are no arms involved.

What is the difference between 'truce' and 'armstice'? truce: Definition, Synonyms from Answers.com truce n. A temporary cessation or suspension of hostilities by agreement of the opposing sides; an armistice Armistice | Define Armistice at Dictionary.com noun a temporary suspension of hostilities by agreement of the warring parties; truce: World War I ended with the armistice of 1918. As you can see, they a the same. Next time, use the online dictionary yourself.