referendum

Everyday

A referendum is a vote in which all the voters of a country or area decide one important question directly, usually by answering yes or no. tree →

In the lessons

In citizenship and politics lessons, a referendum is direct democracy: instead of choosing people to decide for them, citizens decide the question themselves. Examples: the Brexit referendum in the UK on leaving the European Union, the Scottish independence referendum, Ireland's referendums to change its constitution, and Australia's referendums. Results can be close and split families and friends, so arguing politely matters. Phrases: «hold a referendum», «vote in a referendum», «referendum result».

Examples

• The country held a referendum on whether to change the voting system. tree →
• In a referendum, every voter answers the same question. tree →
• The Brexit referendum asked if the UK should leave the European Union. tree →
• Ireland must hold a referendum to change its constitution. tree →
• The result of the referendum was very close. tree →
• Our school had a mini referendum on whether to have a uniform-free day. tree →

Note

Plural «referendums» (most common) or «referenda». Trap: an election chooses people; a referendum decides a question. In maths terms, a referendum is usually won by more than half of the votes cast (a simple majority), though some need more.