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Legislate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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legislate

[ˈlɛdʒɪˌsleɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

government

To make or enact laws; to establish rules and regulations by the authority of a government or organization.

Synonyms

approve, enact, pass.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
legislate

Used when referring to the process of making or enacting laws. Typically used in formal or legal settings.

  • The government will legislate to ensure equal rights for all citizens
  • Politicians debated how to legislate the new policy
enact

Used when bringing a piece of legislation officially into effect. Often seen in formal, legal, or political discussions.

  • Congress will enact the new health care laws next year
  • The government decided to enact harsher penalties for drug offenses
pass

Used when a legislative body formally agrees to a proposed law. Frequently found in political and legislative contexts.

  • The senate voted to pass the new environmental regulations
  • The bill needs to pass both houses of parliament before becoming law
approve

Used when granting permission or formally agreeing to something. Commonly used in both formal and informal settings.

  • The board will approve the budget proposal next week
  • I need my manager to approve my leave request

Examples of usage

  • The parliament will legislate on the new tax reforms.
  • It is the responsibility of the government to legislate for the welfare of its citizens.
Context #2 | Verb

authority

To control or exert authority over something by creating laws or regulations.

Synonyms

control, govern, regulate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
legislate

To create or enact laws, typically done by a governing body or official authority.

  • The parliament will legislate new policies to address climate change.
  • It is important to legislate for better labor rights.
regulate

To set rules or guidelines for practices, behaviors, or systems to ensure proper functioning and order.

  • The agency regulates the safety standards for food products.
  • New laws were introduced to regulate the banking sector.
govern

To officially and legally oversee the administration, policies, and affairs of a state, organization, or people.

  • Elected officials govern the county.
  • The board of directors governs the company.
control

To manage or influence something or someone, often in a way that limits freedom.

  • Parents try to control their children's access to the internet.
  • The government controls the distribution of goods.

Examples of usage

  • The company will legislate the use of personal devices in the workplace.
  • The school board decided to legislate a new dress code policy.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Political Science

  • Different countries have various ways of legislating, such as through parliaments or congresses, which debate and create laws.
  • Legislate often involves committees that specialize in certain areas, like education or health, to ensure laws are well thought out.

History

  • The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, often serves as a foundation for modern legislative processes, marking the beginning of limited government power.
  • In ancient Rome, legislation was often passed by public assemblies, illustrating the democratic roots of law-making.

Culture

  • Throughout history, communities have legislated moral behaviors, highlighting the connection between law and social values.
  • Cultural movements often lead to new legislation, as seen with the civil rights movements prompting laws for equality.

Education

  • Understanding how to legislate is an important part of learning civics in school, teaching students about their rights and how laws work.
  • Many countries include practical experiences, like mock congress sessions, to help students grasp the legislative process.

Origin of 'legislate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'legis latus', which means 'law' and 'to press', showing how laws are established.
  • In the English language, it first appeared in the early 17th century, emphasizing the formal process of law-making.

The word 'legislate' originated from the Latin word 'legislat-' which is the past participle stem of 'legislare', meaning 'to make laws'. The concept of legislating has been a fundamental aspect of governance throughout history, with various civilizations and societies developing systems to create and enforce laws. The evolution of legislative bodies and processes has shaped the modern legal systems we see today.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,984, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.