blue ribbon commission
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: An independent, exclusive, and typically nonpartisan group of distinguished individuals (such as statesmen, experts, or eminent citizens) formally appointed to investigate, study, and provide recommendations on a specific, important, and often complex governmental or public issue. It is characterized by its high prestige and authority.
Usage
A "blue ribbon commission" is established to address critical problems that require expert, impartial analysis outside of regular governmental channels. Its recommendations are influential but not binding. - The term is often used in formal, political, and journalistic contexts. - It functions as a singular noun (e.g., The commission has released its report).
Examples
- The government appointed a blue ribbon commission to investigate the causes of the financial crisis.
- Findings from the blue ribbon commission on education reform were presented to Congress.
- To address the infrastructure emergency, the mayor formed a blue ribbon commission of leading engineers and urban planners.
Advanced Usage
- "blue-ribbon" as an adjective: The term "blue-ribbon" can be used attributively to describe other panels or groups of top-tier quality (e.g., ). However, the specific compound noun "blue ribbon commission" refers to the official governmental investigative body.
- Implication of prestige and urgency: The use of "blue ribbon" implies the issue is of the highest importance and warrants the best available minds.
Variants and Related Words
- Blue-ribbon panel: A very similar term, sometimes used interchangeably, though it may imply a slightly less formal or permanent group than a "commission."
- Task force: A group set up to work on a specific, often more operational, problem. A task force may be less prestigious and more focused on immediate action than a deliberative "blue ribbon commission."
- Committee of inquiry / Royal commission (Commonwealth usage): Similar official investigative bodies.
Synonyms
- Prestigious commission
- High-level commission
- Independent commission
- Expert panel
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Blue-ribbon (adj): Of the highest quality or first-class, deriving from the blue ribbon awarded for first prize in a contest.
- Example: She served on the blue-ribbon committee for the international science fair.
- Note: This adjectival use is related but distinct from the specific compound noun "blue ribbon commission."
Noun
- an independent and exclusive commission of nonpartisan statesmen and experts formed to investigate some important governmental issue