Plebiscite - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A plebiscite is a direct vote by the people of a country or region to decide on an important public issue, such as a change in government policy or sovereignty. It is often used to gauge public opinion on significant matters.
Definition:
A direct vote by the people on an important public issue or policy.
Synonyms:
referendum, ballot, poll, vote
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
dictatorship, autocracy
Common Collocations:
hold a plebiscite, national plebiscite, plebiscite results, conduct a plebiscite
Derivatives:
plebiscitary, plebiscitum
Usage Tips:
Use 'plebiscite' for formal votes on constitutional or territorial matters, not routine elections.
Common Phrases:
"plebiscite on independence, " "plebiscite outcome, " "plebiscite campaign"
Etymology:
From Latin 'plebiscitum,' meaning 'decree of the common people.'
Examples:
- 1. The government called a plebiscite to decide the new tax policy.
- 2. The island held a plebiscite to determine its political future.
- 3. A plebiscite showed strong support for the proposed reforms.
- 4. Citizens demanded a plebiscite on the controversial law change.