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.)

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