Politics IELTS Flashcards
The system or group of people governing an organized community.
Government
Example: “The government implemented new policies to address economic challenges.”
A course or principle of action adopted or proposed by an organization or individual.
Policy
Example: “The environmental policy aimed at reducing carbon emissions.”
Laws, considered collectively.
Legislation
Example: “The new legislation focused on improving healthcare access for all citizens.”
The status of being a member of a particular country and having the rights and privileges that come with it.
Citizenship
Example: “Obtaining citizenship requires fulfilling specific legal requirements.”
The formal process of choosing a person for a public office by voting.
Election
Example: “The election results were announced after a thorough counting process.”
Relating to or supporting democracy.
Democratic
Example: “The country transitioned to a more democratic form of governance.”
Characterized by a concentration of power in a single authority.
Authoritarian
Example: “The authoritarian regime tightly controlled media and dissenting voices.”
Favoring or advocating progress, change, improvement, or reform.
Progressive
Example: “The progressive policy aimed to address social inequality.”
Open and accountable; easily seen through.
Transparent
Example: “A transparent government ensures public trust through open communication.”
Relating to the economy or the system of production and distribution of goods and services.
Economic
Example: “The economic policy focused on stimulating job growth.”
To put a decision, plan, or agreement into effect.
Implement
Example: “The government decided to implement new education reforms.”
To make a bill into law.
Enact
Example: “The parliament voted to enact the proposed immigration legislation.”
To make changes to a document or law.
Amend
Example: “The constitution was amended to include new human rights provisions.”
To seek to influence (a politician or public official) on an issue.
Lobby
Example: “Interest groups often lobby for policies that align with their goals.”
A series of coordinated activities, such as public speaking and demonstrating, designed to achieve a social, political, or commercial goal.
Campaign
Example: “The candidate began their campaign to raise awareness about environmental issues.”
With constant and earnest effort.
Diligently
Example: “The committee worked diligently to draft a comprehensive immigration policy.”
In a way that relates to the identification of long-term or overall aims and interests.
Strategically
Example: “The government strategically invested in technology to boost economic growth.”
In a way that produces the desired or intended result.
Effectively
Example: “The policy was implemented effectively, leading to a decrease in crime rates.”
Taking action to initiate change rather than reacting to events.
Proactively
Example: “The government addressed the issue proactively, anticipating potential challenges.”
In a way that involves careful judgment and analysis.
Critically
Example: “Citizens should critically evaluate the policies proposed by their leaders.”
To complete or accomplish.
Carry out
Example: “The government promised to carry out the reforms within the next year.”
To support or endorse.
Back up
Example: “The opposition party backed up the proposal for educational reform.”
To cause to happen.
Bring about
Example: “The new law aimed to bring about positive changes in environmental practices.”
To introduce or withdraw gradually.
Phase in/out
Example: “The government decided to phase out subsidies for non-renewable energy sources.”
To choose or prefer.
Opt for
Example: “The citizens opted for a candidate with a strong stance on healthcare reform.”
To organize oneself; to start behaving more responsibly.
Get one’s act together
Example: “The government needs to get its act together and address pressing issues.”
To simplify bureaucratic procedures.
Cut through the red tape
Example: “Efforts to cut through the red tape aim to make government processes more efficient.”
To increase or intensify.
Ramp up
Example: “The government decided to ramp up efforts to combat climate change.”
Hold someone accountable
Hold someone accountable
Example: “Citizens expect the government to hold officials accountable for corruption.”
To start a new activity quickly and energetically.
Hit the ground running
Example: “The newly elected officials vowed to hit the ground running on policy reforms.”
It is now your responsibility or decision.
Ball is in your court
Example: “The proposed legislation has been passed; now the ball is in the government’s court to implement it.”
Problems or difficulties are often hidden in the details of a plan or idea.
The devil is in the details
Example: “While the policy sounded promising, the devil is in the details, and some key issues were overlooked.”
In secret; privately.
Behind closed doors
Example: “Negotiations between the two parties took place behind closed doors to reach a consensus.”
In the process of being planned or developed
In the pipeline
Example: “Several new policies are in the pipeline to address economic challenges.”
To face a difficult situation with courage.
Bite the bullet
Example: “The government had to bite the bullet and make tough decisions to stabilize the economy.”
To be the parts that form something; to compose.
Constitute
Example: “The committee was constituted by representatives from various sectors.”
In agreement or compliance with.
In accordance with
Example: “The policy was implemented in accordance with international standards.”
To make less severe, serious, or painful.
Mitigate
Example: “Efforts were made to mitigate the impact of the economic downturn on vulnerable populations.”
To make a process easier or possible.
Facilitate
Example: “The new infrastructure projects were designed to facilitate economic development.”
In a methodical and organized manner.
Systematically
Example: “The government systematically reviewed existing policies to identify areas for improvement.”
To understand or comprehend something challenging.
Wrap one’s head around
informal
Example: “It took me a while to wrap my head around the complex tax reform proposal.”
To take a risk or make oneself vulnerable.
Stick one’s neck out
Example: “The politician decided to stick his neck out and advocate for controversial but necessary reforms.”
To manage or get by despite difficulties.
Muddle through
Example: “The government had to muddle through the economic crisis with limited resources.”
To break or circumvent established rules.
Bend the rules
Example: “Some businesses try to bend the rules to gain a competitive advantage.”
To act in a tough or aggressive manner.
Play hardball
Example: “During negotiations, both parties decided to play hardball to secure the best deal.”
A geographical area represented by an elected official.
Constituency
Example: “The candidate toured the constituency to understand local concerns.”
A general vote by the electorate on a single political question.
Referendum
Example: “The decision to leave the European Union was made through a referendum.”
A system of government in which most decisions are made by state officials.
Bureaucracy
Example: “Some argue that bureaucracy can lead to slow decision-making.”
A body of high-ranking government officials, typically representing executive departments.
Cabinet
Example: “The cabinet met to discuss key policy issues facing the nation.”
Responsible for one’s actions; expected to justify decisions.
Accountable
Example: “Elected officials should be accountable to the people they serve.”
Including all segments of society; not exclusive.
Inclusive
Example: “An inclusive policy promotes equal opportunities for everyone.”
Dealing with things sensibly and realistically.
Pragmatic
Example: “A pragmatic approach is needed to address complex social issues.”
Capable of being maintained over the long term without harming the environment.
Sustainable
Example: “Governments worldwide are focusing on sustainable development goals.”
Prejudiced in favor of a particular cause or group.
Partisan
Example: “It’s important for politicians to set aside partisan differences for the common good.”
To find a way through a complex system or situation.
Navigate
Example: “The government had to navigate economic challenges during the recession.”
To make a system or process more efficient and effective.
Streamline
Example: “Efforts were made to streamline the bureaucratic procedures for faster decision-making.”
To create or develop something strong, enduring, or successful.
Forge
Example: “Diplomats worked to forge international agreements on climate change.”
To give power or authority to someone; to make someone stronger and more confident.
Empower
Example: “Education is a key tool to empower individuals and communities.”
to promote the growth or development of something.
Foster
Example: “The government aimed to foster innovation through research and development initiatives.”
In a cooperative manner with others.
Collaboratively
Example: “Addressing global challenges requires collaboratively developed solutions.”
In a way that has a harmful or negative effect.
Adversely
Example: “Economic policies can sometimes adversely affect vulnerable populations.”
As a result or effect of something.
Consequently
Example: “Increased public awareness of climate change; consequently, governments implemented stricter environmental regulations.”
In a way that is not directly expressed but is understood.
Implicitly
Example: “By accepting the treaty, the country implicitly agreed to abide by certain international standards.”
In a thorough and accurate manner.
Rigorously
Example: “The data was rigorously analyzed before policy recommendations were made.”
To delay or obstruct the progress of something.
Hold up
Example: “Unexpected challenges can sometimes hold up the implementation of policies.”
To withdraw from a position or a previously held stance.
Back down
Example: “After public outcry, the government decided to back down on the controversial tax proposal.”
To present or explain something in a clear and orderly manner.
Set forth
Example: “The committee set forth a comprehensive plan for education reform.”
To introduce gradually, typically over a period of time.
Phase into
Example: “The government planned to phase into the new healthcare system over the next two years.”
To reach the lowest point before stabilization or improvement.
Bottom out
Example: “Economic indicators suggest that the recession may finally be bottoming out.”
To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem.
Hit the nail on the head
Example: “The analyst hit the nail on the head by identifying the root cause of the economic downturn.”
To make someone accountable for their actions.
Hold one’s feet to the fire
Example: “Citizens must hold their representatives’ feet to the fire to ensure transparency.”
to manipulate financial records dishonestly.
Cook the books
Example: “Allegations of companies cooking the books led to regulatory investigations.”
Dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power, typically involving bribery.
Corruption
Example: “The government pledged to eradicate corruption and enhance transparency.”
The act of giving or receiving something of value, often money, to influence the actions of an official.
Bribery
Example: “Bribery is a serious offense that undermines the integrity of public institutions.”
The misappropriation or theft of funds entrusted to someone.
Embezzlement
Example: “The official was arrested for embezzlement of public funds.”
Favoritism shown to family members in matters of employment or economic benefits.
Nepotism
Example: “Accusations of nepotism surrounded the appointment of key government officials.”
A payment made to someone in return for facilitating a transaction or influencing a decision.
Kickback
Example: “The contractor was accused of paying kickbacks to secure government contracts.”
Not conforming to accepted moral standards; morally wrong.
Unethical
Example: “Engaging in bribery is considered unethical and can lead to severe consequences.”
Forbidden by law, rules, or custom.
Illicit
Example: “Illicit financial transactions contribute to the perpetuation of corruption.”
Acting in a deceitful or dishonest manner.
Underhanded
Example: “The underhanded tactics used by some politicians tarnished the electoral process.”
To ask for or try to obtain something, often through improper means.
Solicit
Example: “The official was caught soliciting bribes in exchange for government contracts.”
To take advantage of someone or something for personal gain.
Exploit
Example: “Corrupt individuals often exploit their positions of power for financial benefits.”
To expose or make vulnerable to danger, suspicion, or disrepute.
Compromise
Example: “Engaging in corrupt practices can compromise the credibility of an organization.”
To process illegally obtained funds to make them appear legal.
Launder money
Example: “Money laundering is often associated with corruption and organized crime.”
To ignore or pretend not to notice something, especially wrongdoing.
Turn a blind eye to
Example: “Some officials may turn a blind eye to corruption within their ranks.”
To take shortcuts, often compromising quality or legality to save time or money.
Cut corners
Example: “Businesses engaged in corruption may cut corners to maximize profits.”
: To profit from or take advantage of a situation.
Cash in on
Example: “Some corrupt officials attempt to cash in on their positions for personal enrichment.”
A small, visible part of a much larger problem.
The tip of the iceberg
Example: “The recent scandal is just the tip of the iceberg in uncovering widespread corruption.”
To express a formal indication of choice, usually by marking a ballot or raising a hand.
Vote
Example: “Citizens have the right to vote in democratic elections.”
To choose someone for public office through a voting process.
Elect
Example: “The citizens will elect a new mayor next month.”
A sheet of paper or a card used to cast a vote in an election.
Ballot
Example: “Each voter will receive a ballot with a list of candidates.”
: The process of choosing a person or group for office by voting.
Election
Example: “The upcoming election will determine the next president.”
A designated place where people go to cast their votes in an election.
Polling station
Example: “Voters should go to their assigned polling stations on election day.”
In complete agreement or showing the same opinion.
Unanimous
“The decision to elect the new leader was unanimous among the voters.¨
A formal discussion on a particular topic, usually in a structured setting with opposing viewpoints.
Debate
Example: “The candidates engaged in a heated debate on economic policies.”
A reason or set of reasons given in support of or against a proposition.
Argument
Example: “Each participant presented a compelling argument during the debate.”
Written or spoken communication or debate.
Discourse
Example: “The discourse on climate change involved scientists, policymakers, and activists.”
Capable of convincing or influencing others effectively.
Persuasive
Example: “Her persuasive arguments swayed many undecided voters.”
United or logically connected in a consistent and effective way.
Cohesive
Example: “A cohesive debate structure enhances the overall impact of the discussion.”
Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing.
Eloquent
Example: “The eloquent speaker captivated the audience with her well-articulated points.”
Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or understanding.
Nuanced
Example: “The debate touched on nuanced aspects of the immigration policy.”
Causing or likely to cause an argument; controversial.
Contentious
Example: “The debate became contentious as participants disagreed on fundamental issues.”
To question or dispute a statement or idea, often to provoke discussion.
Challenge
Example: “The moderator encouraged the audience to challenge the candidates with thoughtful questions.”
To prove a statement or theory to be false or incorrect.
Refute
Example: “The debater worked hard to refute the opposing side’s key points.”
In a manner that persuades or satisfies others.
Convincingly
Example: “The debater convincingly demonstrated the flaws in the proposed policy.”
: In a way that shows regard and consideration for others’ opinions.
Respectfully
Example: “Participants were encouraged to express their views respectfully during the debate.”
To discuss a matter thoroughly, often with the aim of reaching an agreement.
Talk over
Example: “The debaters were encouraged to talk over their differences and find common ground.”
To reach an agreement or consensus through persistent negotiation or discussion.
Hammer out
Example: “The negotiators worked hard to hammer out a compromise on the contentious issue.”
To engage in direct competition or confrontation.
Go head to head
Example: “The final round of the debate saw the two top contenders go head to head.”
To maintain one’s position or viewpoint in the face of opposition.
Hold one’s ground
Example: “The debater held her ground, defending her stance against strong criticism.”
To conduct a survey of people’s opinions, often related to political candidates or issues.
Poll
Example: “The organization polled the community to gauge public sentiment.”
In a way that is done openly and unashamedly.
Blatantly
Example: “The kickbacks were accepted blatantly, without any attempt to hide the illicit transactions.”
