Referendum government Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/(please define)/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A system of government in which the will of the people is directly implemented through votings, such as a national referendum, to make important decisions or to confirm the outcome of an election.

Etymology

The word “Referendum” is derived from the Latin phrase “referendum,” meaning “things to be referred,” from “referre,” meaning “to refer.” The term has been used in various forms of government since ancient Greece and Rome.

Examples

• The government passed a bill for a national referendum to decide on the country’s future Constitution.
• In the last national referendum, the majority of the population voted to leave the international alliance.

Synonyms

• Direct democracy
• Populist government

Antonyms

• Oligarchy
• Aristocracy

Additional Information

In a referendum government, citizens directly participate in decision-making processes, which emphasizes the importance of popular consent and democratic representation. This system can ensure that the will of the people is reflected in government policies and actions.

Referendum governments can be seen in various countries, such as Switzerland, where referendums are used to decide on federal laws and amendments to the Constitution.

Usage Notes

In formal contexts, it is common to use the term “referendum” in formal documents, speeches, and reports. When referring to a specific event, it is appropriate to use the term “national referendum” or “referendum vote.”

Cultural References

In the 2016 film “Arrival,” the concept of a referendum government is explored as a form of communication between humans and aliens.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Referendum democracy
• Direct decision-making

Related Words or Phrases

• Poll
• Election
• Voting

Collocations

• Referendum on the Constitution
• National referendum vote
• Referendum government system

Frequency of Use

The term “referendum government” is frequently used in academic discussions, political speeches, and formal documents, especially in countries with direct democracy systems.

Common Misspellings

• Rafirandum government
• Refernendom government