Political Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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political
[pəˈlɪtɪkəl ]
Definitions
related to government or public affairs
Political refers to anything related to government, public affairs, or the actions of politicians. It can also refer to activities, debates, or decisions that are involved in running a government or an organization. Political issues are often controversial and can spark heated discussions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| political |
Use this word when discussing activities, policies, or events related to government, parties, or politicians.
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| governmental |
This word is used when referring to matters specifically related to the structure, institutions, or activities of government entities.
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| public |
Use this word when talking about the general population or services, spaces, and opinions accessible or relevant to everyone.
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| civic |
This word is suitable for talking about the responsibilities, activities, or participation of citizens within a community or society.
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Examples of usage
- His political views are quite liberal.
- The company has faced criticism for its political connections.
- She is actively involved in political activism.
the activities associated with governance
As a noun, political refers to the activities associated with governance, especially the debate or conflict among individuals or parties having or hoping to achieve power. It also encompasses the principles or opinions concerning governance. Political can also refer to the academic study of government and politics.
Synonyms
governance, politics, public affairs.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| political |
This word is used to describe anything related to government, policies, or public affairs. It can refer to a person's beliefs, actions, or the state of a country.
|
| governance |
Use this term to talk about the way in which organizations or countries are managed and controlled. It focuses on rules, processes, and practices.
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| politics |
Use this word when referring to the activities, actions, and policies used to gain and hold power in a government or to discuss the science or art of political government.
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| public affairs |
Use this term to refer to matters or events affecting the public, usually involving government, law, and policy.
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Examples of usage
- The political in-fighting within the party is causing division.
- She is pursuing a degree in political science.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Greek 'politikos', which means 'of, for, or relating to citizens'.
- In ancient Greece, political life was deeply connected to philosophy, where thinkers like Plato and Aristotle discussed governance and justice.
- The concept evolved through the Roman Empire, influencing modern Western political systems.
Cultural Influence
- In many cultures, politics directly influences art, literature, and social movements, such as during the Renaissance when artists often depicted the struggles of power.
- Political satire has been a major part of literature, with works like 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell using allegory to critique government.
- Music and protest songs have played pivotal roles in political movements, often inspiring change through powerful messages.
Psychology
- Political beliefs are often shaped by social identity, where individuals align with groups that share similar values.
- Research shows that people tend to favor candidates who evoke strong emotions, highlighting the psychological impact of charisma in politics.
- Confirmation bias affects how individuals interpret political information, leading them to favor facts that support their pre-existing beliefs.
Democracy & Governance
- Democracy, a political system allowing citizens to vote, originated in ancient Athens and remains a foundational model worldwide.
- Political parties were first organized in the late 17th century, helping streamline decision-making and representation in governments.
- The concept of checks and balances is crucial in modern politics, ensuring that no single branch of government holds too much power.
Pop Culture
- Television shows like 'The West Wing' and 'House of Cards' have significantly influenced public perception of politics, often dramatizing the inner workings of government.
- Political figures often become celebrities, impacting public opinion through social media platforms, where personal branding plays a key role.
- Events like presidential debates have become major entertainment spectacles, attracting millions of viewers and shaping the electoral landscape.
Origin of 'political'
The word 'political' has its origins in the Greek word 'politikos', which means 'of, for, or relating to citizens'. It entered the English language in the 15th century and has since evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings related to government, governance, and public affairs. The concept of politics and political systems has been central to human societies throughout history, shaping the way societies are organized and how power is distributed.
See also: politically, politician, politicians, politics.