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By-election

UK //ˌbaɪ ɪˈlɛkʃən// US //ˌbaɪ ɪˈlɛkʃən// Pronunciation

Definition

A special election to fill a vacancy in a legislative body.

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In simple words: A special election to fill a political position that is empty.

Examples

• The city held a by-election to fill the vacant council seat.
• After the mayor's resignation, a by-election was quickly organized.
• The party leaders campaigned heavily for the by-election in their district.
• In the UK, by-elections can have significant political implications.
• She won the by-election with a large majority against her opponents.
• Turnout in the by-election was surprisingly high this year.

Usage notes

Used primarily in the context of politics to describe elections that occur between general elections. Common in British English.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'buy' a new seat in politics when someone resigns.

Collocations

• hold a by-election
• by-election campaign
• by-election results

Synonyms

• special election
• sub-election
• interim election

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'referendum' as both involve voting.
• Using 'by-election' to describe regular elections.
• Mispronouncing it due to unfamiliarity with the term.