B1noun1K

Election

UK /["/ɪˈlekʃn/"]/US /["/ɪˈlekʃn/"]/

Definition

the process of choosing a person or a group of people for a position, especially a political position, by voting

In simple words: A process when people vote to choose leaders or make decisions.

Examples

  • The election for the new mayor will take place next month.
  • Many citizens are excited about the upcoming presidential election.
  • The election results were surprising to everyone.
  • She was elected as the representative in the last election.
  • After the election, the newly elected officials began to implement their policies.

Usage notes

Used in political contexts, typically referring to governmental positions. Not suitable for informal conversations outside of politics.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'elect' + 'ion'—imagine a unique occasion where you elect someone.

Collocations

  • clean
  • fair
  • free
  • conduct
  • have
  • hold
  • take place
  • be due
  • be scheduled for
  • campaign
  • manifesto
  • pledge
  • at a/​the election
  • in a/​the election
  • by election
  • the outcome of an election
  • the run-up to an election
  • clean
  • fair
  • free
  • conduct
  • have
  • hold
  • take place
  • be due
  • be scheduled for
  • campaign
  • manifesto
  • pledge
  • at a/​the election
  • in a/​the election
  • by election
  • the outcome of an election
  • the run-up to an election

Synonyms

  • vote
  • poll
  • referendum
  • plebiscite
  • ballot

Antonyms

  • apathy
  • indifference

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'selection' which refers to choosing from options generally.
  • Using 'election' for non-political voting contexts, like a contest.
  • Pluralizing incorrectly as 'elections' in contexts that imply a single event.