Definition

1. Noun:
   • Advocacy of a system of government according to constitutional principles: The political theory or belief that a government's authority is derived from and limited by a body of fundamental law (a constitution), and that such governance is desirable.
   • A constitutional system of government (usually with a written constitution): The practice, adherence to, or existence of a government operating under the specific rules and limitations defined by a constitution.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The philosopher's writings were foundational for modern constitutionalism. (Here, constitutionalism refers to the advocacy of governing by constitutional principles.)
  • The country's stability is attributed to its strong tradition of constitutionalism. (Here, constitutionalism refers to the actual practice of having a constitutional system of government.)

Advanced Usage

• "Judicial review is a cornerstone of American constitutionalism.": This phrase illustrates how a specific mechanism (courts reviewing laws) is integral to the practical system of constitutional government.
• "The debate centered on parliamentary sovereignty versus constitutionalism.": This usage contrasts the idea of unlimited legislative power with the principle that government power should be constitutionally constrained.

Variants and Related Words

• Constitutional (adj): Related to or in accordance with a constitution.
  • The court made a constitutional ruling.
• Constitutionalist (n): A supporter or advocate of constitutionalism.
  • He was a noted constitutionalist and legal scholar.

Synonyms

• Rule of law: The principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced.
• Limited government: A government structure where its powers and functions are restricted by law, typically by a constitution.

Related Phrases

• "Principles of constitutionalism": Refers to the core ideas, such as separation of powers and protection of individual rights, that define the concept.
  • The course examines the principles of constitutionalism in historical context.
• "New constitutionalism": A term sometimes used in political economy to describe a modern framework of global rules that constrain state policy-making.
  • The article critiques the effects of new constitutionalism on national sovereignty.

Noun

1. advocacy of a system of government according to constitutional principles
2. a constitutional system of government (usually with a written constitution)