What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ballotage
Example
The election will go to a ballotage since no candidate received more than 50% of the votes. [ballotage: noun]
Example
In the ballotage, voters will have to choose between the top two candidates. [ballotage: noun]
runoff
Example
The runoff will take place next week to determine the final winner. [runoff: noun]
Example
In the runoff, voters will have to choose between the two remaining candidates. [runoff: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Runoff is more commonly used than ballotage in everyday language, especially in the United States. However, the usage of these terms may vary depending on the country and its specific election systems.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ballotage and runoff?
Both ballotage and runoff can be considered formal terms, as they are used in the context of elections and political processes. However, their formality level may also depend on the specific country and its political culture.
