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Balloting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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balloting

[ˈbɔːlətɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

voting process

The process of casting votes in an election or on a particular issue, typically done by marking a ballot.

Synonyms

election, polling, voting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
balloting

Refers to the process of casting votes in an election, particularly within a formal or organized setting.

  • The balloting for the new club president will begin at 10 AM.
  • Balloting in the committee took longer than expected.
voting

The general act of expressing your choice or opinion in a decision-making process, applicable in both formal and informal settings.

  • Voting is a fundamental right in a democracy.
  • They are voting on the new office policy next week.
polling

Refers to the action of recording votes, often used in the context of opinion surveys or the act of visiting a polling station.

  • Polling will be open from 8 AM to 8 PM on election day.
  • Recent polling shows a shift in public opinion on the new policy.
election

Used for the entire process of choosing someone for a position or deciding on a policy, typically in a public or governmental context.

  • The next presidential election is scheduled for November.
  • She won the student council election by a large margin.

Examples of usage

  • Balloting in the presidential election will take place next month.
  • She participated in the balloting for the new school board members.
  • The balloting process was smooth and efficient.
  • The balloting results will be announced tomorrow.
  • After the balloting, the winner will be declared.
Context #2 | Noun

selecting by vote

The act of selecting someone or something by voting among a group of people.

Synonyms

choosing, selection, voting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
balloting

This is typically used in formal or official contexts where votes or choices are collected using ballots. It is often related to elections or decision-making processes within organizations.

  • The election committee is responsible for overseeing the balloting process
  • During the annual meeting, members will participate in balloting to choose the new board of directors
selection

This word is used in both formal and informal contexts when referring to the process of picking among various options. It often implies a careful or deliberate choice.

  • The selection of candidates for the scholarship will be based on academic performance and community involvement
  • His book collection has a wide selection of genres and authors
choosing

This is a general term used in everyday situations when someone is making a selection or decision. It doesn't necessarily involve a formal process.

  • She spent a long time choosing what to wear for the party
  • When you're choosing a restaurant, it's important to consider everyone's preferences
voting

This is used in contexts involving a group decision-making process where votes are cast to decide an outcome. It is especially relevant in political or organizational elections or decisions.

  • The community is coming together for a voting session on the new park development
  • During elections, citizens exercise their right by voting for their preferred candidates

Examples of usage

  • The balloting to choose the team captain was intense.
  • Our club will be balloting for the best costume at the party.
  • Balloting for the most promising startup will happen next week.
  • Students will be balloting for their favorite teacher.
  • The balloting process for the winner took several rounds.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The first recorded use of secret voting dates back to the 5th century BCE in ancient Greece, aiming to prevent undue influence.
  • In the late 19th century, Australia pioneered the 'Australian ballot,' which introduced privacy in voting and influenced many democratic systems worldwide.
  • The Voting Rights Act of 1965 in the U.S. aimed to eliminate barriers to voting for African Americans, highlighting the evolution of fair balloting practices.

Cultural Practices

  • In many cultures, balloting can occur not just in government elections but also for community decisions, sports team selections, and workplace choices.
  • The concept of voting can be traced back to various ancient civilizations, including the Mesopotamians and Romans, demonstrating its universal importance in societal governance.
  • Some societies use informal balloting methods, like show of hands or consensus decisions, particularly in smaller community settings.

Psychology

  • Studies show that people are often influenced by social pressure when casting their votes, which can affect the turnout and choices of others.
  • The expectation of privacy in balloting can lead to more honest choices, as individuals feel less constrained by outside influences.
  • Anonymous voting helps reduce the fear of repercussions for unpopular opinions, fostering a more democratic and representative outcome.

Technology

  • With advancements in technology, electronic voting machines have been implemented in many places to streamline the balloting process and reduce counting errors.
  • Online voting systems are becoming increasingly popular, especially for remote participation, although they pose new challenges regarding security and privacy.
  • Blockchain technology is being explored as a means to ensure transparency and security in the balloting process, potentially revolutionizing voting systems.

Origin of 'balloting'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'ballot' comes from the Italian word 'ballotta,' meaning 'little ball,' which refers to the small balls used in early voting systems.
  • In the past, voting was conducted with physical items like pebbles or balls, which would indicate a person's choice.
  • The word 'ballot' has been used in English since the 16th century, reflecting the long history of voting practices.

The word 'balloting' originated from the Middle French word 'ballot', which means 'small ball used in voting'. The practice of balloting dates back to the 16th century when balls or other objects were used in elections to cast votes. Over time, the process evolved into the use of paper ballots and eventually electronic voting systems. Balloting plays a crucial role in democratic societies by allowing individuals to express their choices and participate in decision-making processes.

See also: balloter.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,937, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.