Veto: meaning, definitions and examples

🚫

Add to dictionary

veto

[ ˈviː.təʊ ]

Noun / Verb

^{Context #1 | Noun}

political decision-making

A veto is a formal decision by the leader of a country or organization to reject a proposed law or decision. It is often used as a means of exercising power or control over a legislative body.

Synonyms

denial, disapproval, rejection.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
veto	Typically used in a formal or governmental setting where an authority figure rejects a proposal or decision. The president used his veto power to block the bill The council issued a veto against the new policy
rejection	Applied in situations where something or someone is not accepted. It can refer to personal, professional, or formal scenarios. It can carry a negative connotation, especially in interpersonal relationships. He faced rejection after his job interview The manuscript received a rejection from the publisher
denial	Often used in situations where someone refuses to accept a fact, truth, or request. It can also have a psychological aspect, indicating refusal to acknowledge reality. Her denial of the evidence was surprising He faced denial when he applied for the loan
disapproval	Used when expressing a lack of approval or unfavorable opinion towards something or someone. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. She showed clear disapproval of his behavior His parents faced his decision with disapproval

Examples of usage

The president issued a veto on the new bill passed by Congress.
The veto by the prime minister was met with strong opposition.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

formal decision-making

To veto means to reject or block a proposed law or decision, typically by a person in authority. It is a powerful tool to prevent unwanted legislation from being enacted.

Synonyms

block, nullify, reject.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
veto	Used in formal settings, such as politics or organizational settings, where someone has the power to formally refuse a proposal or decision. The president decided to veto the bill passed by Congress. The board members have the power to veto any major financial decision.
reject	Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe refusing or not accepting something or someone. He decided to reject the job offer because the salary was too low. The manuscript was rejected by several publishers before it was finally accepted.
block	Commonly used in everyday language to describe stopping or preventing progress, movement, or access. The protesters tried to block the entrance to the building. She used her hand to block the sunlight from her eyes.
nullify	Typically used in legal or formal contexts to describe making something legally void or ineffective. The court's ruling will nullify the previous contract. Any future changes to the policy will nullify the current agreements.

Examples of usage

The governor has the power to veto any bill that comes across his desk.
The mayor decided to veto the construction project due to budget concerns.

Translations

Translations of the word "veto" in other languages:

🇵🇹 veto

🇮🇳 विरोध

🇩🇪 Veto

🇮🇩 veto

🇺🇦 вето

🇵🇱 weto

🇯🇵 拒否権 (kyohi-ken)

🇫🇷 véto

🇪🇸 veto

🇹🇷 veto

🇰🇷 거부권 (geobugwon)

🇸🇦 فيتو (fītu)

🇨🇿 veto

🇸🇰 veto

🇨🇳 否决 (fǒujué)

🇸🇮 veto

🇮🇸 neitunarvald

🇰🇿 вето

🇬🇪 ვეტო (veto)

🇦🇿 veto

🇲🇽 veto

Etymology

The term 'veto' originates from Latin, where it means 'I forbid'. The concept of veto power has been present in various forms throughout history, with notable examples in ancient Rome and the early days of the United States. The modern usage of the term in political contexts emerged in the 17th century.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,582 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.

...
8579 await
8580 ionization
8581 stipulation
8582 veto
8583 ornaments
8584 objectionable
8585 hopeful
...