Suffrage: meaning, definitions and examples

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suffrage

 

[ ˈsʌf.rɪdʒ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

right to vote

Suffrage is the right to vote in political elections. It is a fundamental principle of democracy, ensuring that all citizens have a say in the governance of their country. Suffrage has been a hard-fought battle throughout history, with many groups marginalized and excluded from this basic right.

Synonyms

enfranchisement, franchise, voting rights.

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Word Description / Examples
suffrage

Use 'suffrage' when referring to the right to vote in elections, especially in historical or formal contexts. It is often associated with movements for universal voting rights.

  • The women's suffrage movement was a pivotal moment in history
  • Everyone should have suffrage to ensure democracy works
voting rights

Use 'voting rights' in modern, everyday language when referring to the ability and eligibility to vote. This term is especially useful in discussions about civil rights.

  • Activists are fighting to protect voting rights for all citizens
  • Voting rights are a fundamental aspect of democracy
franchise

'Franchise' can be used to describe the right to vote, but it is also commonly used to refer to a business model. In the context of voting, it has a slightly more formal tone.

  • For many years, segments of the population were denied the franchise
  • New laws were enacted to expand the voting franchise
enfranchisement

'Enfranchisement' is appropriate when discussing the process of granting the right to vote, particularly in legal or political contexts.

  • The enfranchisement of marginalized groups is essential for social justice
  • Enfranchisement has expanded significantly over the past century

Examples of usage

  • The suffrage movement fought for women's right to vote.
  • Universal suffrage allows all citizens to participate in the electoral process.
  • Without suffrage, a democracy cannot truly represent the will of the people.
Context #2 | Noun

support for a cause

Suffrage can also refer to the act of supporting or advocating for a particular cause or belief. It implies standing in solidarity with those who are fighting for their rights or seeking justice. This usage of suffrage highlights the importance of collective action and unity in pursuing social change.

Synonyms

advocacy, solidarity, support.

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Word Description / Examples
suffrage

Suffrage is used when talking about the right to vote in elections. This term is often used in discussions about civil rights, democracy, and political reforms.

  • Women's suffrage was achieved in many countries during the early 20th century.
  • The movement for universal suffrage aimed to grant voting rights to all citizens regardless of wealth or social status.
support

Support is a broad term that refers to helping or backing someone or something. It can be used in various contexts including emotional support, financial support, and professional support.

  • She felt grateful for the emotional support her friends gave during difficult times.
  • The charity provides financial support to families in need.
advocacy

Advocacy refers to the act of supporting or arguing in favor of a particular cause, policy, or group of people. It is often used in the context of social justice, public policy, and legal matters.

  • He is well-known for his advocacy of environmental protection laws.
  • Her advocacy work has helped raise awareness about the needs of the disabled community.
solidarity

Solidarity describes unity or agreement of feeling or action, often for the purpose of mutual support within a group. This term is frequently used in labor movements, social justice campaigns, and with communities facing adversity.

  • The workers showed solidarity by striking together for better wages.
  • International solidarity was shown for the victims of the natural disaster.

Examples of usage

  • The suffrage of the people was crucial in achieving civil rights reforms.
  • I express my suffrage for the rights of marginalized communities.
  • We must unite in suffrage against oppression and discrimination.

Translations

Translations of the word "suffrage" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sufrágio

🇮🇳 मताधिकार

🇩🇪 Wahlrecht

🇮🇩 hak suara

🇺🇦 виборче право

🇵🇱 prawo wyborcze

🇯🇵 選挙権

🇫🇷 suffrage

🇪🇸 sufragio

🇹🇷 oy hakkı

🇰🇷 선거권

🇸🇦 حق الاقتراع

🇨🇿 volební právo

🇸🇰 volebné právo

🇨🇳 选举权

🇸🇮 volilna pravica

🇮🇸 kosningaréttur

🇰🇿 сайлау құқығы

🇬🇪 საარჩევნო უფლება

🇦🇿 seçki hüququ

🇲🇽 sufragio

Etymology

The term 'suffrage' originates from the Latin word 'suffragium', which means a voting tablet or vote. It has roots in ancient Roman voting practices where citizens cast their votes by dropping tablets into urns. Over time, suffrage evolved to encompass the broader concept of the right to vote and the act of supporting causes. The suffrage movement in the 19th and 20th centuries played a pivotal role in expanding voting rights to marginalized groups, including women and minorities. Today, suffrage remains a symbol of democratic participation and social justice.

See also: insufferable, insufferably, suffer, sufferer, sufferers, suffering.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,139 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.