What is election? Pronunciation and usage in English

election means . Learn how to pronounce and use election through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of election

electionnoun

/ɪˈlɛkʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of election

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "election." It can be a tricky one for non-native speakers! Here's a breakdown:

The Standard Pronunciation (Most Common):

  • ih-LEC-shun

Let's break that down further:

  • ih: Like the "i" in "it." Short and crisp.
  • LEC: This is the key part. It sounds like "leck" - like "lecture," but shorter and with a slightly hardening of the "e" sound. It's a diphthong - a combination of two vowel sounds blending together.
  • shun: Like "sun," but with a “sh” sound at the beginning.

Here's a helpful way to think about it:

Imagine you're saying "I select-shun." That gets you pretty close!

Resources to Hear It:

Important Note: There are very slight regional variations, but the "ih-LEC-shun" pronunciation is overwhelmingly the standard in American and British English.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some minimal pairs to practice (words that differ by only one sound – like “election” vs. “invention” or “reduction”)

Usage and examples with the word election in English

Let's break down how to use the word "election" in English. It's a common word with a few nuances.

1. Basic Definition:

  • What it is: An election is a formal process where people vote to choose someone or something to hold an office or make a decision.

2. Common Usages & Phrases:

  • "Hold an election": This means to organize and conduct an election.
    • Example: “The government will hold an election next year.”
  • "General election": This refers to a national election to choose leaders for the entire country.
    • Example: “The general election in 2024 will decide the next prime minister.”
  • "Local election": This is an election for local offices like mayor, city council, or school board.
    • Example: “The local election saw a record turnout.”
  • "Presidential election": Specifically, an election to choose a president.
    • Example: “The presidential election is a major event in the United States.”
  • "Upcoming election": An election that is scheduled to happen soon.
    • Example: “There’s an upcoming election – make sure you’re registered to vote.”
  • "Election results": The outcome of an election – who won.
    • Example: “The election results were announced late last night.”
  • "Election campaign": The period of time when candidates try to win an election.
    • Example: “The election campaign is becoming increasingly heated.”
  • "To vote in an election": To participate in an election by casting a ballot.
    • Example: “Citizens have the right to vote in an election.”

3. Sentence Examples (Various Contexts):

  • Formal: “The annual shareholder election will be held on July 15th.” (Referring to a vote on company matters)
  • News Report: “The opposition party is hoping to win the election and change the country’s policy.”
  • Conversation: “I need to make sure I'm registered to vote in the election.”
  • Political Analysis: “Analysts predict a close election.”

4. Related Words:

  • Candidate: A person running in an election.
  • Ballot: The paper or electronic form used to cast a vote.
  • Voter: A person who votes.
  • Polling place: The location where people go to vote.
  • Election cycle: The period between elections.

Resources for More Information:

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Synonyms for the word election

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