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.
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.