Turnout: meaning, definitions and examples

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turnout

 

[ˈtɜːrnaʊt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in politics

The number of people attending or taking part in an event, meeting, election, etc.

Synonyms

attendance, participation, presence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
turnout

Used to describe the number of people who attend an event or go to vote in an election. It often highlights the success or popularity of the event.

  • The concert had a remarkable turnout, with over 10,000 attendees.
  • Voter turnout was higher than expected for the local elections.
attendance

Refers to the act of being present at a place, like a meeting, class, or event. It has a neutral tone and is often used in formal or official contexts.

  • Attendance at the meeting is mandatory for all staff members.
  • Despite the rain, school attendance remained high.
participation

Focuses on being actively involved in an event or activity. It has a positive connotation and emphasizes engagement or contribution.

  • Your participation in the project is crucial for its success.
  • Student participation in class discussions has improved significantly.
presence

Indicates the state of existing in a particular place or situation. It can imply both physical and non-physical existence, like emotional or authoritative presence.

  • Her presence at the party made it much more enjoyable.
  • The CEO's presence in the meeting room creates an air of formality.

Examples of usage

  • The voter turnout for the election was higher than expected.
  • We were disappointed by the low turnout at the community meeting.
Context #2 | Noun

in a performance

The number of people who attend a particular event, especially a performance or sports event.

Synonyms

audience, crowd, spectators.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
turnout

This is typically used to describe the number of people who attend an event. It can refer to both large and small numbers and is often used in the context of elections, public events, or gatherings.

  • The concert had an impressive turnout, with over 10,000 people in attendance.
  • The voter turnout in this election was lower than expected.
audience

This word is used to describe a group of people who are gathered to watch or listen to a performance, speech, movie, or any other form of entertainment. It implies that the people are a targeted group who have come specifically for the event.

  • The audience applauded loudly after the play.
  • She was nervous about speaking in front of such a large audience.
crowd

This refers to a large group of people who are gathered in one place, commonly used in situations where people are not necessarily focused on a single event but are just gathered together. It can sometimes imply disorder or chaos.

  • The police had to manage the crowd at the protest.
  • There was a huge crowd at the festival.
spectators

This term is often used for people who are watching a sports event, race, or similar activities. It suggests that the people are observing but not participating.

  • The spectators cheered as the runners crossed the finish line.
  • There were many spectators at the soccer match.

Examples of usage

  • The band was thrilled with the large turnout at their concert.
  • The turnout for the basketball game was impressive.
Context #3 | Noun

in a road

A place where a road leads off from another, or a widening in a road.

Synonyms

branch, intersection, junction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
turnout

As stated earlier, this word can also refer to the number of people attending an event. In some contexts, it can mean a place where vehicles can pull off the road to allow others to pass or to park.

  • There is a small turnout just ahead where you can stop to take pictures.
  • The election had a surprisingly high voter turnout.
junction

This word is used to describe a place where roads or railway lines come together and go in different directions. It often implies a more complex connection than an intersection.

  • The train will stop at the junction for passengers to transfer.
  • We met at the junction of the two highways.
intersection

This term is used to describe a place where two or more roads meet or cross each other. It can also mean the point where two subjects or fields come together.

  • Be careful when you drive through the intersection.
  • The intersection of art and science can produce fascinating results.
branch

This word is usually used to refer to a part of a larger organization or a division of a tree. It can also indicate a subdivision of a topic or subject.

  • She works at the west branch of the library.
  • The oak tree's branches sway gently in the wind.
  • This is a new branch of science.

Examples of usage

  • The car took the turnout to the scenic viewpoint.
  • There's a turnout just ahead where we can stop for a break.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'turnout' combines the idea of 'turning out' or showing up to an event.
  • Originally, 'turnout' referred to how much goods were produced, later adapting to social gatherings.
  • In the early 20th century, it started being associated mainly with voters attending elections.

Political Science

  • Turnout rates can significantly influence election outcomes, determining which policies or leaders are chosen.
  • High turnout is often associated with competitive elections, where voters feel their choice matters.
  • Countries with mandatory voting laws, like Australia, often have turnout rates exceeding 90%, showing civic engagement.

Cultural Trends

  • Major events like the Women’s March in 2017 saw impressive turnout levels, demonstrating collective action.
  • Festivals often promote higher turnout, leveraging social media to engage participants and create excitement.
  • Cultural attitudes towards voting can either promote turnout or discourage participation, impacting overall civic activity.

Psychology

  • People are more likely to turn out when they feel a sense of belonging or community responsibility.
  • Social influence plays a significant role; if friends and family participate, individuals are more likely to join.
  • The 'mobilization' effect occurs when campaigns effectively reach out to potential voters, significantly increasing turnout.

Statistics

  • In the United States, presidential election turnout has averaged around 60% in recent decades, but varies by demographics.
  • Midterm elections typically see lower turnout, often around 40%, highlighting differences in voter engagement.
  • Studies show younger voters tend to have lower turnout compared to older generations, prompting targeted outreach efforts.

Translations

Translations of the word "turnout" in other languages:

🇵🇹 comparecimento

🇮🇳 उपस्थिति

🇩🇪 Beteiligung

🇮🇩 kehadiran

🇺🇦 явка

🇵🇱 frekwencja

🇯🇵 参加者数

🇫🇷 participation

🇪🇸 asistencia

🇹🇷 katılım

🇰🇷 참석률

🇸🇦 إقبال

🇨🇿 účast

🇸🇰 účasť

🇨🇳 出席率

🇸🇮 udeležba

🇮🇸 mæting

🇰🇿 қатысу

🇬🇪 მონაწილეობა

🇦🇿 iştirak

🇲🇽 asistencia