Prerogative - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A prerogative is an exclusive right or privilege held by a particular individual or group, often due to their position or authority. It implies special entitlement not available to others.
Definition:
A right or privilege exclusive to a particular individual or group.
Synonyms:
privilege, right, entitlement, advantage, liberty
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
obligation, duty
Common Collocations:
royal prerogative, executive prerogative, presidential prerogative, legal prerogative, personal prerogative
Derivatives:
prerogatived (rare), prerogatively (rare)
Usage Tips:
Use "prerogative" to describe an exclusive right, often tied to authority or status. Avoid overuse in casual contexts.
Common Phrases:
royal prerogative, exercise one's prerogative, by prerogative right
Etymology:
From Latin "praerogativa," meaning a privilege or first choice, originally referring to voting rights in ancient Rome.
Examples:
- 1. The CEO exercised his prerogative to approve the project unilaterally.
- 2. Voting is a democratic prerogative that should not be taken for granted.
- 3. She claimed it was her prerogative to leave work early on Fridays.
- 4. The king’s royal prerogative allowed him to bypass parliamentary approval in emergencies.