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
- commonwealth
- self-government
- representative government
- republic
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'
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.
