Plurality: meaning, definitions and examples

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plurality

 

[ pluːˈrælɪti ]

Context #1

in social sciences

The state or condition of being numerous or multiple; a large number or quantity.

Synonyms

abundance, multiplicity, multitude

Examples of usage

  • The region's diversity is reflected in the plurality of languages spoken.
  • Plurality of opinions is essential for a healthy democracy.
  • The company prides itself on the plurality of its workforce.
Context #2

in voting systems

The number of votes cast for a candidate who receives more than any other but does not receive an absolute majority.

Synonyms

largest number, majority, plurality vote

Examples of usage

  • The candidate won by a plurality of votes.
  • In a plurality system, the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of achieving a majority.

Translations

Translations of the word "plurality" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pluralidade

🇮🇳 बहुलता

🇩🇪 Pluralität

🇮🇩 pluralitas

🇺🇦 множинність

🇵🇱 pluralizm

🇯🇵 多数性 (たすうせい)

🇫🇷 pluralité

🇪🇸 pluralidad

🇹🇷 çoğulluk

🇰🇷 다양성

🇸🇦 التعددية

🇨🇿 pluralita

🇸🇰 pluralita

🇨🇳 多样性

🇸🇮 pluralnost

🇮🇸 fjölbreytileiki

🇰🇿 көптүрлілік

🇬🇪 მრავალფეროვნება

🇦🇿 çoxluq

🇲🇽 pluralidad

Word origin

The word 'plurality' has its origins in the Latin word 'pluralitas', which means 'a greater number' or 'the state of being plural'. The term has been used in various contexts throughout history, including in social sciences and voting systems. In social sciences, it refers to the state of being numerous or multiple, while in voting systems, it denotes the number of votes cast for a candidate who receives more than any other but does not receive an absolute majority.