Electioneering: meaning, definitions and examples

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electioneering

[ɪˌlɛkʃəˈnɪrɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

political campaign

The act of actively participating in a political campaign, especially in seeking votes or public support.

Synonyms

campaigning, election campaigning, political activism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
electioneering	This term is often used in a more technical or formal context related to the activities politicians and their supporters engage in to promote their candidate or party. It can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation, suggesting excessive or manipulative behaviors. The candidate's electioneering tactics were heavily criticized in the media Electioneering is in full swing as we approach the final weeks before the vote
campaigning	This is a general term that refers to the broader efforts of promoting a candidate or political cause. It's neutral and commonly used in everyday conversation. She has been campaigning tirelessly for the last six months Many volunteers are needed for door-to-door campaigning
political activism	This term encompasses a broader range of activities beyond just campaigning for candidates. It can include advocating for specific issues, organizing protests, or engaging in community initiatives. It's often associated with grassroots movements and social change. Her political activism focuses on environmental issues and social justice Political activism played a crucial role in bringing about important policy changes
election campaigning	This phrase specifies that the campaigning activities are directly related to an election. It is often used in formal or detailed discussions about political strategies. Election campaigning has become increasingly digital in the past decade Strict rules govern election campaigning to ensure fairness

Examples of usage

Electioneering plays a crucial role in shaping the outcome of elections.
Political parties engage in electioneering to promote their candidates.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

political context

To take part in activities designed to influence voters in favor of a particular candidate or party.

Synonyms

campaigning, lobbying, persuading.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
electioneering	Electioneering is commonly used when referring to activities directly related to seeking votes during an election period. This includes speeches, rallies, and canvassing. The candidate spent weeks electioneering in the rural areas to secure more votes. Electioneering in the final days can make a significant difference in close races.
campaigning	Campaigning is a more general term that covers a wide range of strategies and activities aimed at promoting a candidate or cause. This includes advertisements, public appearances, and debates. She is campaigning for the new environmental policies. He plans to start campaigning early to gain an advantage over his opponents.
lobbying	Lobbying refers to efforts aimed at influencing the decisions of government officials, typically not related directly to elections but to policy changes. It often has a negative connotation due to perceived manipulation or pressure. The industry is lobbying Congress to relax certain regulations. Lobbying can be seen as a way for corporations to exert undue influence on lawmakers.
persuading	Persuading is the act of convincing someone to do or believe something. It is a broad term and can be used in various contexts, from personal conversations to more formal efforts in marketing or negotiations. He spent hours persuading her to join the team. Persuading voters to support a new policy requires a clear and compelling argument.

Examples of usage

The candidate spent weeks electioneering in key battleground states.
Electioneering tactics include canvassing, phone banking, and public speeches.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term originated in the early 19th century, combining 'election' from the Latin 'electio' and the suffix '-eering' which suggests action or jobs.
The word reflects the active efforts and tactics used by candidates to influence voters' choices.

Historical Context

In the U.S., the 1828 election between Andrew Jackson and John Quincy Adams marked a pivotal moment where electioneering strategies became more aggressive and widespread.
Political parties began developing modern campaign techniques, like rallies and posters, during the 20th century, further professionalizing election efforts.

Pop Culture

Electioneering has inspired numerous films and books that explore the strategies and moral dilemmas of politics, like 'The Candidate' starring Robert Redford.
Popular TV shows, such as 'Parks and Recreation,' often humorously depict electioneering efforts at local levels, highlighting both the effort and absurdity involved.

Psychology

Electioneering heavily relies on psychological tactics, such as appealing to emotions or shared values among the electorate to gain support.
Studies show that candidates who can connect personally with voters often have higher chances of success, invoking a sense of trust and loyalty.

Technology

With the rise of the internet, electioneering has evolved to include social media campaigns, allowing for targeted outreach to specific demographics.
Campaigns now utilize big data analytics to gauge voter preferences and behaviors, tailoring messages for more effective persuasion.

Translations

Translations of the word "electioneering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 campanha eleitoral

🇮🇳 चुनाव प्रचार

🇩🇪 Wahlkampf

🇮🇩 kampanye pemilu

🇺🇦 передвиборча агітація

🇵🇱 kampania wyborcza

🇯🇵 選挙活動 (せんきょかつどう)

🇫🇷 campagne électorale

🇪🇸 campaña electoral

🇹🇷 seçim kampanyası

🇰🇷 선거 운동 (선거 유세)

🇸🇦 الحملة الانتخابية

🇨🇿 volební kampaň

🇸🇰 volebná kampaň

🇨🇳 竞选活动 (jìng xuǎn huó dòng)

🇸🇮 volilna kampanja

🇮🇸 kosningabarátta

🇰🇿 сайлауалды үгіт-насихат

🇬🇪 საპრეზიდენტო კამპანია

🇦🇿 seçki kampaniyası

🇲🇽 campaña electoral

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,028, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
26025 woeful
26026 edematous
26027 nunnery
26028 electioneering
26029 obsequious
26030 unbeliever
26031 sop
...