Canvassed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ณ๏ธ
canvassed
[หkรฆnvรฆst ]
Definition
political campaigning
Canvassed refers to the action of soliciting votes or opinions from people, particularly in the context of elections or political campaigns. It often involves going door-to-door or engaging in conversations to gauge public sentiment. Canvassing is a critical activity for candidates to understand the issues that matter to voters and to build support. This method is also utilized by organizations to raise awareness or gather support for particular causes. The effectiveness of canvassing can significantly impact the outcome of elections.
Synonyms
campaign, prospected, solicited, surveyed.
Examples of usage
- The volunteers canvassed the neighborhood to promote the candidate's platform.
- She spent the weekend canvassing for signatures on the petition.
- They canvassed voters to understand their opinions on the new policy.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Politics
- Canvassing is a vital part of political campaigns, where volunteers and candidates go door-to-door to discuss issues with voters.
- During elections, successful canvassing can significantly impact the outcome by ensuring voters cast their ballots.
- In some cases, canvassing includes phone calls or online surveys, adapting modern technology for traditional campaigning.
Research Methods
- In research, canvassing is used to gather data from a specific population to analyze perspectives on various topics.
- The technique often includes structured interviews or questionnaires to ensure systematic data collection.
- Results from canvassing can influence policy decisions, community programs, and market strategies.
Social Engagement
- Canvassing can foster community involvement by encouraging discussions about local needs and solutions.
- Volunteer canvassing efforts often help raise awareness about social issues or causes that need attention.
- People who canvass can build crucial interpersonal skills, such as communication and persuasion.
Literature
- In literature, characters may canvass to reveal personal beliefs or to sway other characters' opinions, showcasing their intentions.
- Many novels feature politicians or activists who canvass as part of their character arcs, representing their engagement with the public.
- The act of canvassing in narratives often serves as a plot device to explore themes of democracy, ethics, and social responsibility.
Origin of 'canvassed'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'canvass' comes from the Middle English term 'canvassen,' which meant to scrutinize or examine closely.
- Originally, it referred to the act of using a cloth (canvas) to prepare a surface, and later transitioned into the context of reviewing opinions.
- In the 17th century, to 'canvass' was often linked to sailors examining their sails; this evolved into gathering opinions.
The term 'canvass' originates from the late 16th century, derived from the word 'canvass' meaning 'to sift matter' or 'to examine closely'. It is believed to have evolved from the earlier term 'canvas', referring to the cloth used for sifting grain or examining an issue. Initially, canvassing was not exclusively used in a political context; it involved the scrutiny of various matters, from business undertakings to legal proceedings. Over time, as democracy and the political process developed, the term became closely associated with efforts to mobilize voters and gather their opinions. The evolution of societal engagement led to the current usage of the term, which emphasizes its role in political campaigns and civic engagement.