Constitution: meaning, definitions and examples

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constitution

 

[ ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

law

A body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or other organization is acknowledged to be governed.

Synonyms

charter, code, framework.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
constitution

Refers to the fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or other organization is governed.

  • The constitution guarantees freedom of speech and religion.
  • The country's new constitution was adopted after years of political turmoil.
charter

Typically used for a formal document that outlines the rights and obligations of an organization, group, or municipality. It can also refer to the grant of authority or rights.

  • The town's charter was renewed to include more modern governance structures.
  • The United Nations Charter established its core principles and mission.
code

Often refers to a systematic collection of laws or regulations on a particular topic. It can also mean a set of rules or principles that are used to govern behavior.

  • The new tax code aims to simplify the process for citizens.
  • The company's code of conduct outlines acceptable behavior in the workplace.
framework

Generally used to describe a basic structure underlying a system, concept, or text. It provides a guideline or overarching structure but is less formal and detailed than the other terms.

  • The framework for the new educational curriculum was approved by the board.
  • We need a solid framework to guide our project development.

Examples of usage

  • The country's constitution lays down the principles of government and the rights of its citizens.
  • The constitution of the company states that all decisions must be made by a majority vote.
  • According to the constitution, every citizen has the right to freedom of speech.
Context #2 | Noun

anatomy

The physical makeup of the individual, including the distribution of tissues, cells, and organs.

Synonyms

build, health, physical condition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
constitution

This term is often used in a general sense to describe the physical and mental composition of a person, particularly as it relates to their ability to withstand different conditions or illnesses.

  • Despite her frail constitution, she managed to climb the mountain.
  • His strong constitution allowed him to recover quickly from the illness.
physical condition

This phrase specifically refers to the state of a person’s body, often in terms of fitness and ability to perform physical tasks. It can refer to both current physical state and general fitness over time.

  • He is in excellent physical condition because he exercises every day.
  • The team's physical condition was tested rigorously before the season started.
health

Health is a broad term that refers to the overall condition of a person’s body and mind. It can include aspects like absence of disease, fitness, and mental well-being.

  • Regular exercise is important for maintaining good health.
  • The doctor said my health has improved considerably.
build

This word typically refers to the physical structure or form of a person's body. It's often used to describe size, shape, and muscle mass.

  • He has a muscular build thanks to years of weightlifting.
  • Her slim build makes her a great runner.

Examples of usage

  • Her constitution allowed her to recover quickly from illnesses.
  • The athlete's strong constitution enabled him to endure long races.

Translations

Translations of the word "constitution" in other languages:

🇵🇹 constituição

🇮🇳 संविधान

🇩🇪 Verfassung

🇮🇩 konstitusi

🇺🇦 конституція

🇵🇱 konstytucja

🇯🇵 憲法 (けんぽう)

🇫🇷 constitution

🇪🇸 constitución

🇹🇷 anayasa

🇰🇷 헌법 (heonbeop)

🇸🇦 دستور

🇨🇿 ústava

🇸🇰 ústava

🇨🇳 宪法 (xiànfǎ)

🇸🇮 ustava

🇮🇸 stjórnarskrá

🇰🇿 конституция

🇬🇪 კონსტიტუცია

🇦🇿 konstitusiya

🇲🇽 constitución

Etymology

The word 'constitution' originated from the Latin word 'constitutio' which means 'establishing, regulation, ordinance'. The concept of a constitution as a set of fundamental principles for governance dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Roman Republic and Greek city-states. In modern times, written constitutions have become common, outlining the structure of government and the rights of citizens in countries around the world.

See also: constituency, constituents, constitute, reconstitution.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,354, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.