Politic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
👔
politic
[ˈpɒl.ɪ.tɪk ]
Definitions
in society
The activities, actions, and policies used to gain and hold power in a government or to influence the government.
Synonyms
government, politics, governance.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| politic |
This word is used to describe actions that are prudent, shrewd, or tactful, often in a context involving diplomacy or handling sensitive matters.
|
Examples of usage
- The country's politic is dominated by two major parties.
- She studied political science to understand the intricacies of politicking.
personal behavior
The art or science of government or governing, especially the governing of a political entity.
Synonyms
statecraft, diplomacy, political maneuvering.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| politic |
This word describes behavior that is tactful and wise in handling practical matters. It is often used in general situations requiring careful and strategic action.
|
Examples of usage
- She was praised for her sharp politicking skills during the election campaign.
- The politician's politic was cleverly designed to win over voters.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Individuals who are described as politic may be perceived as socially savvy, understanding social dynamics effectively.
- Research suggests that being politic can enhance one's social capital, which is essential for networking and influence.
- Psychologically, those who are politic often employ strategies like persuasion and empathy in their interactions.
Literature
- In Shakespeare's works, characters often exhibit politic behavior, using wit and charm to navigate complex social situations.
- The theme of politicking appears often in classic literature, showcasing the tension between ethics and strategy in leadership.
- Literary analyses often explore the notion of the 'politic character' as a vehicle for critique on societal norms and governance.
Pop Culture
- In contemporary television, many characters demonstrate politic behavior, navigating alliances and conflicts, like those seen in political dramas.
- Political satire shows often highlight the politic behaviors of real-life politicians, emphasizing the importance of strategy in public office.
- The portrayal of politic behavior in films can serve as a lens to scrutinize actual political events and decisions.
History
- Throughout history, many leaders have been described as politic, successfully maneuvering through crises to ensure their survival and success.
- The concept of being politic has been integral in revolutions, where leaders strategized their approaches to rally people around their cause.
- In ancient Rome, notable figures like Cicero exemplified politic traits with their eloquence and strategic communication skills.
Origin of 'politic'
Main points about word origin
- The term has roots in ancient Greece, derived from 'politikos' meaning 'of, for, or relating to citizens.'
- In Middle English, it evolved from the Latin 'politicus' which referred to a person engaged in civic matters.
- The word has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe shrewdness in dealing with political affairs.
The word 'politic' originated in the late 15th century from the Middle French word 'politique', which in turn came from the Latin word 'politicus', meaning 'of citizens or the state'. The term evolved to encompass the activities and strategies involved in governance and power dynamics.