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referendum

ref-uh-REN-dum /ˌrefəˈrendəm/

nounC1GRESATTOEFL

formal

A direct vote by the entire electorate on a specific political question or proposal referred to them.

Bypasses representative assemblies to let individual citizens vote directly on policy laws.

The story behind the word. From Latin 'referendum', gerundive neuter of 'referre' (to carry back). It literally means 'that which must be referred back' to the citizens for final approval.

Word relationships

plebiscite: 'Plebiscite' often refers to a vote on national sovereignty or major constitutional changes, while 'referendum' applies broadly to legislative issues.
ballot measure: 'Ballot measure' is the general electoral term, whereas 'referendum' stresses direct democratic referral.

representative vote: A vote cast by elected representatives rather than directly by citizens.

Commonly confused with

reference: A 'reference' is a source of information or recommendation letter, whereas a 'referendum' is a direct ballot vote.

Word family

referenda (noun): Plural form of referendum (alongside referendums).

Collocations

hold a referendum
campus referendum
binding referendum
referendum vote

Idioms & expressions

referendum on leadership

Example sentences

"Students voted in a referendum to decide whether campus activity fees should be increased." Student government ballot issue
"The university senate passed a referendum establishing a student-led green initiative." Campus newspaper report

Memory hook

REFER a policy decision directly back to the voters in a REFERENDUM. Carried back to the voters.

When not to use

Do not use for general elections between candidates competing for an office position.

Fun facts

Switzerland holds more referendums than any other nation, letting citizens vote directly on national laws multiple times every year!