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Mandate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mandate

[ˈmæn.deɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

government

An official order or commission to do something. A command or authorization to act in a particular way.

Synonyms

decree, directive, instruction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mandate

Typically used in a formal or legal context to describe an official order or commission to do something. It often implies authority and obligation.

  • The new environmental mandate requires companies to reduce carbon emissions.
  • The governor issued a mandate to improve public transportation.
directive

Used in organizational or managerial contexts to describe an authoritative instruction. It implies guidance or a course of action that needs to be followed.

  • The European Union issued a new directive on data privacy.
  • The CEO's directive was clear: increase productivity and cut costs.
instruction

Commonly used in everyday situations to describe detailed information or guidelines on how to do something. It carries a less formal and more practical tone.

  • The teacher gave instructions on how to complete the homework.
  • Follow the instructions on the back of the package for best results.
decree

Commonly used in a legal or governmental context to describe an official order issued by a legal authority. It often has a formal and sometimes authoritarian tone.

  • The king issued a royal decree to implement new tax laws.
  • A decree was passed to ensure the protection of historical landmarks.

Examples of usage

  • The president issued a mandate for stricter border control measures.
  • The mandate of the committee was to investigate the allegations of corruption.
Context #2 | Noun

business

The authority to carry out a policy or course of action as given by the electorate to a party or candidate.

Synonyms

approval, authorization, endorsement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mandate

Used when there is an official order or command to do something, often from a higher authority.

  • The government issued a mandate to reduce emissions
  • The board's mandate required immediate action
authorization

Used when official permission or power is granted, often relating to access or ability to perform certain actions.

  • You need authorization to enter the secure area
  • The doctor authorized the prescription
approval

Employed when permission or agreement is given, typically after consideration.

  • The project received approval from the board
  • She waited for her parents' approval before making a decision
endorsement

Utilized when there is support or approval, often publicly given by someone famous or authoritative.

  • The product received a celebrity endorsement
  • The policy got endorsement from several key stakeholders

Examples of usage

  • The party won a clear mandate in the election to implement their manifesto promises.
  • The new CEO received a strong mandate from the board to restructure the company.
Context #3 | Verb

government

To give (someone) authority to act in a certain way.

Synonyms

authorize, order, require.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mandate

Used in a formal or official context, often by an authoritative body like a government, to set a requirement or enact a policy.

  • The government mandated the wearing of masks in public spaces
  • The new law mandates stricter safety regulations
authorize

Used when someone with power or permission gives formal approval or permission to do something.

  • The manager authorized the purchase of new equipment
  • The bank authorized the transaction after verifying the account details
order

Used in contexts where someone in authority gives a direct and explicit command or instruction. It can have a forceful or urgent tone.

  • The captain ordered the crew to abandon ship
  • The judge issued an order to arrest the suspect immediately
require

Used when something is needed or necessary according to rules or for a specific purpose. It can imply necessity or obligation.

  • The course requires all students to submit a final project
  • The job position requires at least five years of experience

Examples of usage

  • The president mandated the use of masks in all public spaces.
  • The law mandates that all students must attend school until a certain age.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • In the 20th century, mandates were used to describe territories administered by Western powers after World War I.
  • The League of Nations implemented mandates to govern former territories of the Ottoman Empire, shaping modern geopolitics.
  • The concept of mandates often intersected with colonial policies, impacting numerous nations' paths toward independence.

Politics

  • Elected officials often interpret their electoral success as a 'mandate' to carry out specific policies.
  • The idea of political mandate plays a critical role in discussions about the authority and legitimacy of governance.
  • In democratic systems, a mandate can empower leaders to implement reforms based on voter support.

Business

  • In corporate settings, mandates can dictate strategic directions or initiatives for employees to follow.
  • Organizations often create project mandates to ensure all team members understand objectives and scope.
  • Failure to comply with a corporate mandate can lead to disciplinary actions or loss of job security.

Law

  • In legal terms, a mandate can refer to an order issued by a court or regulatory authority.
  • Administrative agencies often receive mandates from government statutes to enforce laws and regulations.
  • Mandates in law can also extend to compel individuals or organizations to act in a specific way under legal obligation.

Origin of 'mandate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'mandatum,' meaning 'something that is commanded'.
  • It entered the English language in the early 15th century, relating mainly to commands in religious contexts.
  • In the legal sense, it has been in use since the late 19th century to refer to authoritative orders.

The word 'mandate' comes from the Latin word 'mandatum', which means 'something commanded'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Originally, it referred to an official command or instruction, particularly in the context of government or authority. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a broader meaning of authorization or permission to carry out a specific action. The concept of a mandate is closely linked to the idea of authority and responsibility, particularly in political and business contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,146 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.