initiative
ih-NISH-uh-tiv
/ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/
An act, strategy, or fresh enterprise intended to resolve a problem; or the power/opportunity to act before others do.
In politics, it specifically refers to a new policy program or a citizen-led proposal placed on a ballot.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'initium' (beginning), built on 'inire' (to enter or go into). To have 'initiative' is to be the first to step forward into action.
Word relationships
- venture: 'Venture' emphasizes financial or commercial risk.
- scheme: 'Scheme' can carry a negative connotation of devious or overly complex planning.
- passivity: 'Passivity' implies sitting back without taking active steps.
- inertia: 'Inertia' represents resistance to change or starting new programs.
Commonly confused with
- initial: 'Initial' means first or occurring at the beginning, whereas 'initiative' is a proactive measure or proposal.
Word family
- initiate (verb): To cause a process or action to begin.
- initiator (noun): A person who starts a process.
Collocations
- policy initiative
- launch an initiative
- take the initiative
- citizen initiative
Idioms & expressions
- take the initiative
Example sentences
- "The mayor launched a green housing initiative aimed at revitalizing low-income neighborhoods." Urban Planning
- "Voters passed the citizen initiative to increase funding for public libraries." Direct Democracy
Memory hook
INITIATE + ACTIVE: Taking proactive steps to INITIATE new action. Taking the first step forward.
When not to use
Do not confuse with routine administrative duties that lack novelty or proactive energy.
Fun facts
- In US state politics, the 'ballot initiative' allows citizens to bypass their state legislature and vote on laws directly.
Explore more words
proactive, enterprise, innovate, spearhead, innovation, take action
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