Referendum: meaning, definitions and examples

A referendum is typically a formal, official vote by the entire electorate on a specific proposal or issue, often with significant legal or political consequences.

• The government announced a referendum to decide on the new constitutional amendments
• The citizens will participate in a referendum to determine the future of the national healthcare system

Plebiscite is an official public vote on a question that does not usually have legal force, often more for gauging public opinion or legitimizing a government move.

• The newly formed government decided to hold a plebiscite to seek approval from the public on the unification proposal
• A plebiscite was conducted to understand the population's stance on introducing new nationwide reforms

A poll is an informal method of gauging public opinion, often conducted by organizations or media outlets to measure views on various issues or predict election outcomes.

• The latest poll shows that the majority of citizens support the new economic policies
• According to the recent poll, the candidate is leading by a significant margin

To vote means to cast a formal indication of choice on a matter, typically during elections or official decisions in different contexts like clubs, organizations, or general elections.

• Every citizen over 18 is eligible to vote in the national elections
• The club members will vote on the new president next week

Occasions when the government or an authority seeks to directly ask the public to vote on a specific issue or policy.

• The government is holding a referendum on independence.
• The results of the referendum will determine the new policy.

Used during elections to refer to the physical or electronic tool that voters use to make their choices.

• Please make sure to fill out your ballot correctly.
• The ballot is secret to ensure privacy.

Events where public representatives, such as politicians, are chosen through voting.

• The next presidential election is in November.
• Elections are held every four years.

Used to gather information or opinions from a group of people on various topics, often not related to voting or official decisions.

• We are conducting a survey on customer satisfaction.
• The survey results showed a preference for online shopping.