Federalism - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Federalism is a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and regional units, allowing both to operate independently within their own spheres.
Definition:
A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and regional units.
Synonyms:
decentralization, confederation, unionism
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
centralization, unitarism
Common Collocations:
federal system, federal structure, federal government, federal powers
Derivatives:
federalist, federalize, federate
Usage Tips:
Use "federalism" to describe power-sharing between national and local governments in political discussions.
Common Phrases:
cooperative federalism, dual federalism, fiscal federalism
Etymology:
Derived from Latin "foedus" (treaty), referring to a union of states under a central government.
Examples:
- 1. The U.S. Constitution established federalism to balance national and state powers.
- 2. Federalism allows regions to govern themselves while following national laws.
- 3. Canada's federalism gives provinces control over education and healthcare.
- 4. Debates about federalism often focus on states' rights versus central authority.