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Veto Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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veto

[ˈviː.təʊ ]

Definitions

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?

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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?

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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

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word comes from Latin, meaning 'I forbid,' illustrating the power of disagreement.
  • Early governments, such as the Roman Republic, had leaders who could veto laws they disagreed with.
  • The concept of vetoes was used in ancient times to prevent unpopular decisions from being made.

Political Science

  • In the United States, the President has the power to veto laws passed by Congress, which can then be overridden with a supermajority.
  • The veto power is a key feature of checks and balances in democratic governments to prevent one branch from becoming too powerful.
  • Countries around the world adopt veto actions to uphold their national interests in international treaties.

Pop Culture

  • In popular TV shows, characters sometimes joke about having a 'veto' power when making group decisions.
  • Movies portray characters using their veto rights dramatically, especially in political thrillers and comedies.
  • Vetoing is used in games, where players can say 'no' to others' moves or suggestions to change the outcome.

Origin of 'veto'

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.

See also: vet.

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.