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Prorogue Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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prorogue

[prəˈroʊɡ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

formal assembly

To prorogue is to discontinue a session of a legislative body without dissolving it. This action allows a parliament to remain in session, but it temporarily suspends its activities until it is reconvened. Prorogation is often used in political contexts, with leaders deciding to prorogue to delay or circumvent discussions on specific issues. It may be seen as a controversial tactic, especially if perceived as a means to avoid accountability.

Synonyms

adjourn, postpone, suspend.

Examples of usage

  • The Prime Minister decided to prorogue Parliament for a few weeks.
  • The governor has the authority to prorogue the legislative session.
  • After much debate, the House voted to prorogue its session early.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Political Usage

  • In the UK, prorogation can be used by the monarch to end a parliamentary session.
  • The 2019 prorogation of Parliament was controversial and led to significant legal debates about its constitutionality.
  • Proroguing is generally seen as a method for government leaders to gain time, which can affect political strategy.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In various cultures, the concept of postponing decisions is often seen as strategic, reflecting on timing in leadership.
  • Some political theorists argue that proroguing can be a tool for maintaining order versus fostering unrest.
  • Historical figures like Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt faced their own instances of pauses within governance.

Legal Context

  • There are specific legal requirements and implications involved with proroguing in different countries, including reflections on democratic practices.
  • In some legal systems, excessive use of prorogation can be challenged in courts on grounds of misuse of power.
  • Prorogue is often part of broader rule-making within legislative bodies, affecting public policy discussions.

International Variations

  • Different countries have their own rules on prorogation, affecting how legislative bodies function and interact.
  • In Canada, the Governor General has the power to prorogue Parliament, often influenced by political circumstances.
  • Understanding prorogue practices in different nations shows how culture influences governance and political strategies.

Origin of 'prorogue'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'prorogare', meaning 'to prolong or extend'.
  • Initially, it referred to extending the duration of something, commonly applied to legislative sessions.
  • It has been used in English since the late 14th century, primarily in legal and governmental contexts.

The term 'prorogue' comes from the Latin 'prorogare', which means 'to prolong'. The prefix 'pro-' suggests 'for' or 'forward', while the root 'rogare' means 'to ask' or 'to propose'. The use of 'prorogue' has been primarily associated with parliamentary procedure. During the Middle Ages, the process became formalized as monarchs and other leaders had the authority to prorogue sessions of parliament. Historically, prorogation allowed rulers to manage their legislative bodies without full dissolution, creating a balance between power and governance. In modern contexts, the use of prorogation continues in various political systems, often sparking debate regarding its implications on democracy and governance.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,184, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.