civil union

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civil union

A couple signs their civil union certificate at a courthouse.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A legally recognized relationship between two people, typically of the same sex, that grants many of the same rights and responsibilities as marriage: A "civil union" is a formal, state-sanctioned partnership that provides legal protections and benefits similar to those of marriage, but it is a distinct legal status.
Usage
  • A "civil union" is a specific legal term. It is used to describe the status of a couple joined in this partnership.
  • It is often used in legal, political, and social discussions about relationship recognition.
  • Example: "The state offers civil unions as an alternative to marriage for same-sex couples."
Examples
  • Noun:
    • Several countries recognized civil unions before legalizing same-sex marriage.
    • They entered into a civil union to secure legal rights for healthcare decisions.
    • The law grants partners in a civil union the right to inherit from each other.
Advanced Usage
  • "To be in a civil union": To have the legal status of a civil union.
    • They have been in a civil union for five years.
  • "To enter into a civil union": To legally form a civil union.
    • The couple plans to enter into a civil union next month.
Variants and Related Words
  • Civil partnership (n): A term used similarly to "civil union," common in some jurisdictions like the UK.
    • The Civil Partnership Act provided legal recognition for same-sex couples.
  • Domestic partnership (n): A less formal legal arrangement that may offer fewer rights than a civil union or marriage.
Synonyms
  • Legal partnership: A broad term for a legally recognized union.
  • Registered partnership: A union formally registered with a governmental authority.
Related Phrases
  • Dissolve a civil union: To legally end a civil union.
    • The process to dissolve a civil union is similar to divorce.
  • Rights of civil union: Refers to the legal entitlements granted by this status.
Related Idioms

(This term is a specific legal concept; it is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions.)

civil union

A couple signs their civil union certificate at a courthouse.

Noun
  1. a voluntary union for life (or until divorce) of adult parties of the same sex
    • parties to a civil union have all the same benefits, protections, and responsibilities under Vermont law as spouses in a marriage