Electoral: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'electoral' when discussing matters related to elections, such as systems, processes, districts, or outcomes.

• The electoral system in our country needs significant reform.
• Electoral districts were redrawn to better represent the population.

Use 'voting' for the act of casting a vote in an election. It focuses on the individual action of participating in an election by marking a choice.

• Voting is a fundamental right in any democracy.
• Early voting has started in several states.

Use 'balloting' when referring to the act of casting votes, especially emphasizing the method or process of voting, such as using ballots, either paper or electronic.

• The balloting process will ensure that each vote is accurately counted.
• The organization conducted balloting to elect a new president.

Use 'election' when talking about the event where people vote for candidates or decisions. It refers to the overall process of choosing representatives or deciding on issues.

• The presidential election will take place next month.
• Voter turnout is expected to be high for the local elections.

Used to describe anything related to an election or the process of voting. It's more formal and often used in government or legal contexts.

• The country is preparing for the electoral campaign.
• Electoral reforms will be discussed in the parliament next week.

Typically used to describe a person who has the right to vote, more formal than 'voter' and can be used in specific contexts like the Electoral College in the U.S.

• In the U.S., electors in the Electoral College cast their votes for the president.
• Each elector must register before the deadline.

Refers to a person who participates in voting. It is the most common and casual term used for someone who votes in an election.

• Many voters turned out for the local elections.
• Voter turnout was higher than expected.

Refers to a person who legally belongs to a specific country and has rights and responsibilities there. It is a general term not limited to elections.

• Every citizen has a duty to obey the law.
• She became a U.S. citizen last year.