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Republic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ—ณ๏ธ
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republic

[rษชหˆpสŒblษชk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

form of government

A republic is a form of government where the country is considered a public matter, not the private concern or property of the rulers. In a republic, the people have the supreme power and elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.

Synonyms

constitutional government, democracy, representative government.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
republic

Use 'republic' when referring to a state where the supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch.

  • France is a republic.
  • Many countries in Europe transitioned to republics after World War II.
democracy

Use 'democracy' to describe a system of government where the citizens exercise power by voting. It emphasizes political equality and the right of the citizens to participate directly or through representatives.

  • Switzerland is known for its direct democracy.
  • In a democracy, the people have the power to choose their leaders through free and fair elections.
representative government

Use 'representative government' when referring to a system of government where citizens elect representatives to create laws and policies on their behalf. This term highlights the role of elected officials in the legislative process.

  • Canada operates under a representative government.
  • Representative government allows citizens to have a say in lawmaking through their elected officials.
constitutional government

Use 'constitutional government' when describing a government that operates under a constitution, which provides the legal framework defining the structure, functions, and limits of government authority.

  • The United States is an example of a constitutional government.
  • In a constitutional government, the powers of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches are clearly defined.

Examples of usage

  • The United States is a republic with a democratic system of government.
  • In a republic, the citizens have the right to vote for their leaders.
Context #2 | Noun

historical context

In ancient Rome, a republic was a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch.

Synonyms

Roman Republic, Roman state, ancient Rome.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
republic

Use this term to describe a form of government where the country is considered a public matter with leaders elected by the people.

  • France is a republic that embraced democratic values after its revolution.
  • The United States operates as a federal republic.
Roman Republic

This term is specifically used to refer to the period of Roman civilization when the government operated as a republic, from 509 BC to 27 BC.

  • The Roman Republic saw the rise of influential figures like Cicero and Julius Caesar.
  • During the Roman Republic, the Senate held significant power in governance.
Roman state

This term can be used to refer to the government or political structure of Rome in a broader sense, without specifying a particular period.

  • The Roman state faced numerous challenges from internal strife and external invasions.
  • Throughout its history, the Roman state adapted to various forms of governance.
ancient Rome

This term is used when referring to the period and culture of Rome from its founding in 753 BC until the fall of the Western Roman Empire in AD 476.

  • Ancient Rome is famous for its contributions to architecture and law.
  • Julius Caesar was one of the most notable figures in ancient Rome.

Examples of usage

  • The Roman Republic existed before the Roman Empire.
  • The Roman Republic had a Senate and consuls as governing bodies.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • The Roman Republic, established in 509 BC, was one of the earliest examples where citizens elected leaders instead of a monarchy.
  • Many modern democracies, including the United States and France, draw inspiration from the principles of republics established in ancient Rome.

Political Science

  • A republic often features a constitution that protects the rights of citizens against government power.
  • In contrast to monarchies, a republic's leaders can be replaced through elections, reinforcing accountability.

Global Perspectives

  • There are different types of republics, like federal (USA) and unitary (France), showcasing various governance styles and structures.
  • Some countries have a hybrid form where a republic includes monarchic elements, blending both systems.

Literature

  • Platoโ€™s 'The Republic' is a famous philosophical work discussing justice and the ideal state, influencing political thought throughout history.
  • Literature often uses republics to explore themes of governance, freedom, and the role of citizens within society.

Origin of 'republic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'res publica,' meaning 'the public thing' or 'the common wealth.'
  • In Latin, 'res' means things or matters, and 'publica' relates to the people or the public.

The word 'republic' has its roots in Latin 'res publica', which translates to 'public affair'. The concept of a republic dates back to ancient Rome and was further developed during the Renaissance. The idea of a government where the people have the ultimate power has influenced political systems around the world. Today, many countries identify as republics, each with its own unique system of governance.

See also: Republican.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,061 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.