Governance

/ˈɡʌvərnəns/

nounmediumVery CommonTechnology

Definitions

1

The system or process by which an organization or a country is controlled and directed.

/ˈɡʌvərnəns/

nounneutralmedium
Technology

The act or manner of governing; the system by which something is governed.

The company's governance structure promotes ethical behavior.

💡 Simply: Imagine you're running a school or a team. Governance is the set of rules and the way you make decisions to keep things running smoothly and fairly, like how you choose a team captain or decide what classes to offer.

👶 For kids: How grown-ups make rules and decisions for a group, like a school or a country.

More Examples

2

Good governance is essential for economic growth and social stability.

3

The country’s transition to democratic governance has been challenging.

How It's Used

Politics

"Effective governance is crucial for a stable democracy."

Business

"Corporate governance ensures accountability and transparency."

International Relations

"Global governance requires cooperation between nations."

Idioms & expressions

corporate governance

The system of rules, practices, and processes by which a company is directed and controlled.

"Strong corporate governance is essential for attracting investors."

good governance

Governance characterized by transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.

"The UN promotes good governance in developing nations."

public governance

The way government is run, involving the relationship between citizens and the state.

"Studies show that effective public governance is linked to economic growth."

From Old French *governance* (14th century), derived from *governer* (“to govern”), from Latin *gubernare* (“to steer, to guide”).

The term has been used since the 14th century, originally referring to the act of ruling or controlling.

Memory tip

Think of the 'governor' of a state. Governance is how they manage and direct.

governencegoverance

Usage

20%Spoken
80%Written