B1adjective1K

Political

UK /["/pəˈlɪtɪkl/"]/US /["/pəˈlɪtɪkl/"]/

Definition

connected with the state, government or public affairs

In simple words: Related to government and public affairs.

Examples

  • The political landscape is constantly changing in our country.
  • She is studying political science at the university.
  • His political views are very liberal compared to his parents.
  • There was a political debate on television last night.
  • Political leaders need to work together for the good of the country.

Usage notes

Use 'political' when discussing government, policies, or opinions. It may not be appropriate in casual conversations that don't involve governance.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'political' as 'pole' of a country — imagine a flagpole representing the nation's politics.

Collocations

  • be
  • become
  • get
  • highly
  • very
  • explicitly
  • be
  • become
  • get
  • highly
  • very
  • explicitly
  • be
  • become
  • get
  • highly
  • very
  • explicitly

Synonyms

  • governmental
  • civil
  • legislative
  • diplomatic
  • partisan

Antonyms

  • apolitical
  • non-political

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'political' with 'policy', which refers specifically to plans or actions.
  • Using 'political' in non-political contexts, like personal relationships.