disfranchisement

/,dis'fræntʃaizmənt/

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Word: Disfranchisement

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: Disfranchisement refers to the situation where someone loses their rights, particularly the right to vote. It means that a person or a group is no longer allowed to participate in elections or make decisions about who will represent them in government.

Usage Instructions:

• "Disfranchisement" is often used in discussions about voting rights and social justice.
• It is typically used in a formal or academic context rather than in everyday conversation.

Example Sentences:

1. Simple Example: The new law led to the disfranchisement of many citizens who could no longer vote.
2. Advanced Example: Historical instances of disfranchisement, such as those affecting African Americans in the United States, were pivotal in the fight for civil rights.

Word Variants:

• Disfranchise (verb): To take away someone's right to vote.
  • Example: The new voting laws could disfranchise many eligible voters.
• Franchise (noun): Refers to the right or license granted to an individual or group to conduct business or vote.
  • Example: The franchise allows citizens to choose their leaders.

Different Meanings:

• While "disfranchisement" primarily refers to losing the right to vote, it can also apply to losing other rights or privileges in different contexts, such as certain civil rights.

Synonyms:

• Disenfranchisement
• Exclusion
• Denial of rights

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Deprived of a voice": This idiom can be used to describe someone who has been disfranchised, meaning they cannot express their opinions in elections.

  • Example: Many felt deprived of a voice after the new laws were enacted.

• "Locked out of the process": This phrasal verb can express a similar idea, indicating that someone is excluded from participating in something important, like voting.

  • Example: The new regulations locked many citizens out of the process of electing their leaders.

Summary:

Disfranchisement is an important concept related to voting rights and social equality.

Academic

Noun

1. the discontinuation of a franchise; especially the discontinuation of the right to vote