Government

/ˈɡʌvərnmənt/

nounBeginnerVery CommonTechnology

Definitions

2 meanings
1

The ruling authority of a country, state, or community.

/ˈɡʌvərnmənt/

nounneutralBeginner
Technology

The system or group of people governing an organized community, often a state.

The government provides essential services like healthcare and education.

💡 Simply: Imagine a group of people in charge of a school, city, or country. They make rules, decide how things are done, and help everyone. That group is the government! Like the principal at your school, but for a bigger area.

👶 For kids: The people who make the rules and run a country or city.

More Examples

2

Citizens have the right to participate in their government.

3

The government's decisions affect the entire population.

How It's Used

Politics

"The government announced new economic policies."

Law

"The government is responsible for enforcing the law."

Sociology

"Different forms of government exist around the world, such as democracies and autocracies."

2

The act or process of governing; the exercise of authority.

/ˈɡʌvərnmənt/

nounneutralmedium
General

The action or manner of controlling or regulating a state, organization, or group of people.

The principles of good government are essential for societal progress.

💡 Simply: Think of it like this: Imagine a group of kids trying to decide what game to play. The way they decide and make rules is like government. It's how things are managed and controlled.

👶 For kids: How people are in charge and make decisions.

More Examples

2

The government of a company ensures smooth operations.

3

The government of a project requires careful planning and execution.

How It's Used

Sociology

"The study of government is essential for understanding how societies function."

Political Science

"Different theories exist on the best form of government."

Tip:Relate it to the action of governing as a verb: they *government* (rule) the people.

Idioms & expressions

The government of the day

The current government in power.

"The government of the day is facing criticism over its new policies."

In government

Working or holding office in the government.

"She has worked in government for over twenty years."

From Old French *governement*, from *governer* 'to govern', ultimately from Latin *gubernare* 'to steer, to govern'.

The word 'government' has been used since the 13th century and has evolved to refer to various forms of public authority and administration.

Memory tip

Think of the 'governor' as the leader. The government is the group they lead.

govermentgovernement

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written