Chapter 4 Test Definitions

Question 1

eminent domain

Answer 1

power of a government to take private property for public use

Question 2

censure

Answer 2

to issue a formal condemnation

Question 3

term

Answer 3

two-year period of time during which Congress meets

Question 4

constituency

Answer 4

the people and interests that an elected official represents

Question 5

reapportion

Answer 5

redistribute, as in seats in a legislative body; after census

Question 6

gerrymander

Answer 6

the drawing of electoral district lines to the advantage of a party or group

Question 7

franking privilege

Answer 7

benefit allowing members of Congress to mail letters and other materials postage-free

Question 8

committee of the whole

Answer 8

whole body of the House

Question 9

quorum

Answer 9

a majority of the full membership of the House or Senate who must be present to conduct business

Question 10

resolution

Answer 10

a measure relating to the business of either house of Congress or expressing an opinion; does not have the force of law and does not require the President’s signature
- deals with/ one house

Question 11

discharge petition

Answer 11

enables members to force a bill that has remained in committee 30 days onto the floor for consideration

Question 12

veto

Answer 12

the chief executive’s power to reject a bill passed by the legislature

Question 13

pocket veto

Answer 13

a type of veto a chief executive may use after a legislature has adjourned when the chief executive does not sign or reject a bill within the time allowed to do so