What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vote
Example
I'm going to vote for my favorite candidate in the upcoming election. [vote: verb]
Example
The vote was unanimous in favor of the new policy. [vote: noun]
Example
Everyone has the right to vote in a democratic society. [vote: noun]
referendum
Example
The government held a referendum on whether to legalize marijuana. [referendum: noun]
Example
The referendum resulted in a narrow victory for the 'leave' campaign. [referendum: noun]
Example
The prime minister promised to hold a referendum on the issue if re-elected. [referendum: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vote is more commonly used than referendum in everyday language. Vote is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while referendum is less common and usually reserved for formal political processes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between vote and referendum?
Referendum is a more formal word than vote, as it is typically associated with official government procedures and national issues. Vote can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
