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Referendum - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A referendum is a direct vote by the public on a specific political issue or policy, allowing citizens to approve or reject a proposal. It is a key tool in democratic decision-making.

referendum

/ˌrɛfəˈrɛndəm/ /ˌrɛfəˈrɛndəm/

Definition:

A general vote by the electorate on a single political question.

Synonyms:

plebiscite, ballot, poll, vote

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

dictatorship, autocracy

Common Collocations:

hold a referendum, referendum result, national referendum, constitutional referendum

Derivatives:

referendums (plural), referenda (plural)

Usage Tips:

Use "referendum" for formal public votes on major issues, not informal polls or surveys.

Common Phrases:

referendum campaign, binding referendum, advisory referendum

Etymology:

From Latin "referendum," meaning "thing to be referred."

Examples:

  • 1. The government announced a referendum on the new tax policy.
  • 2. Citizens voted in the referendum to decide the city's future.
  • 3. The referendum results showed strong support for independence.
  • 4. A national referendum was held to amend the constitution.
  • 5. The opposition demanded a referendum on the controversial law.

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