democracy

[dɪˈmɑːkrəsi]

democracy Definition

a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives..

Using democracy: Examples

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

• Example

  The country has been a democracy since its independence.

• Example

  The democratic process allows citizens to vote for their leaders.

• Example

  Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of democracy.

• Example

  The country's transition to democracy was a long and difficult process.

democracy Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for democracy

• republic
• commonwealth
• self-government
• representative government

Antonyms for democracy

• autocracy
• dictatorship

Idioms Using democracy

• the voice of the people is the voice of God

  the opinion of the majority of people is always right

  Example

  In a democracy, the voice of the people is the voice of God.

• throw one's hat into the ring

  to announce that one is running for public office

  Example

  He decided to throw his hat into the ring and run for mayor.

• the powers that be

  the people who are in charge of a particular organization or institution

  Example

  The powers that be have decided to increase taxes.

Phrases with democracy

• direct democracy

  a form of democracy in which people decide on policy initiatives directly

  Example

  Direct democracy was practiced in ancient Athens.

• representative democracy

  a type of democracy founded on the principle of elected officials representing a group of people

  Example

  The United States is a representative democracy.

• illiberal democracy

  a governing system in which although elections take place, citizens are cut off from knowledge about the activities of those who exercise real power because of the lack of civil liberties.

  Example

  Some countries have illiberal democracies that restrict freedom of speech and the press.

Origins of democracy

from Greek 'dēmokratia', from dēmos 'the people' + -kratia 'power, rule'

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Summary: democracy in Brief

Democracy [dɪˈmɑːkrəsi] is a system of government where the whole population or all eligible members of a state elect representatives. It is characterized by freedom of speech and the right to vote. Examples include 'The country has been a democracy since its independence.' and 'The democratic process allows citizens to vote for their leaders.' Phrases like 'direct democracy' and 'representative democracy' describe different types of democracy.