backbencher Definition
a Member of Parliament who does not hold office in the government or opposition and therefore sits on the back benches.
Using backbencher: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "backbencher" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The backbenchers were unhappy with the Prime Minister's decision.
Example
He was a backbencher for many years before being appointed to a ministerial position.
Example
The backbenchers are often overlooked in favor of those in leadership positions.
backbencher Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for backbencher
Phrases with backbencher
backbench revolt
a situation where a group of backbenchers rebel against their party leadership
Example
The Prime Minister faced a backbench revolt over his handling of the crisis.
backbench committee
a committee made up of backbench MPs from a particular political party
Example
The backbench committee met to discuss the party's policy on climate change.
backbench debate
a debate in the House of Commons initiated by a backbench MP rather than the government or opposition
Example
The backbench debate focused on the issue of affordable housing.
Summary: backbencher in Brief
'Backbencher' [ˈbækˌbentʃər] refers to a Member of Parliament who does not hold office in the government or opposition and therefore sits on the back benches. It is often used to describe a group of MPs who are not in leadership positions and may be overlooked. The term extends into phrases like 'backbench revolt,' where a group of backbenchers rebel against their party leadership, and 'backbench debate,' a debate initiated by a backbench MP.
