filibuster

[ˈfɪlɪbʌstər]

filibuster Definition

• 1. an action such as a prolonged speech that obstructs progress in a legislative assembly while not technically contravening the required procedures
• 2. the use of irregular or obstructive tactics by a member of a legislative assembly to prevent the adoption of a measure generally favored or to force a decision against the will of the majority

Using filibuster: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "filibuster" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The senator launched a filibuster to delay the vote on the bill.

• Example

  The minority party threatened to filibuster the legislation.

• Example

  The filibuster lasted for hours, preventing any progress from being made.

filibuster Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for filibuster

• obstructionist
• interference
• interruption
• delaying tactic
• stalling tactic

Antonyms for filibuster

• cooperation
• assistance

Phrases with filibuster

• nuclear option

  a parliamentary procedure that allows the Senate to override a rule or precedent by a simple majority of 51 votes, rather than the two-thirds supermajority normally required to amend the rules

  Example

  The majority party threatened to use the nuclear option to end the filibuster.

• silent filibuster

  a filibuster in which a senator signals their intent to filibuster but does not actually speak, allowing other business to be conducted while still preventing a vote on the measure at hand

  Example

  The silent filibuster allowed the senator to block the legislation without actually speaking for hours.

• talking filibuster

  a filibuster in which a senator speaks continuously to prevent a vote on a measure, often requiring them to stand and speak for hours on end

  Example

  The senator launched a talking filibuster to delay the vote on the bill.

Origins of filibuster

from Spanish 'filibustero', meaning 'pirate'

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Summary: filibuster in Brief

A 'filibuster' [ˈfɪlɪbʌstər] is an action that obstructs progress in a legislative assembly, often through prolonged speeches or other obstructive tactics. It is used to prevent the adoption of a measure generally favored or to force a decision against the will of the majority. Examples include 'The senator launched a filibuster to delay the vote on the bill.' 'Filibuster' extends into phrases like 'nuclear option,' and 'silent filibuster,' and 'talking filibuster,' denoting different tactics.