downing street

/'dauniɳ'stri:t/

Thân thiện

The Prime Minister walks into 10 Downing Street.

Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A street in Westminster, London: A specific street in central London that is the location of the official residences of key figures in the British government, most notably the Prime Minister at Number 10.
   • The British government (by metonymy): Used as a term to refer collectively to the executive branch of the UK government, particularly the Prime Minister and their close advisors, based on their location.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun (Literal location):

  • The official car turned into Downing Street.
  • Tourists often take photos outside the famous black door on Downing Street.

• Proper noun (Metonymic for the government):

  • Downing Street has issued a statement on the new policy.
  • The decision was made after lengthy discussions in Downing Street.

Advanced Usage

• "A Downing Street spokesperson": A formal way to refer to an official representative speaking on behalf of the Prime Minister's office.

  • A Downing Street spokesperson denied the allegations.

• "Sources in Downing Street": Refers to unofficial or background information coming from people within the government's central offices.

  • Sources in Downing Street suggest the minister will resign.

Variants and Related Words

• Number 10 (No. 10): A common shorthand for "10 Downing Street," the Prime Minister's official residence and office.

  • The announcement came directly from Number 10.

• Downing Street Declaration: Refers to specific historical joint declarations issued by the British and Irish governments, named for the location where they were formulated.

Synonyms

• Whitehall: Another London street used metonymically to refer to the British government and its civil service, though this often implies the administrative machinery rather than the political leadership.
• The government: The general term for the governing authority.
• The executive: The branch of government responsible for implementing laws and policies.

Related Phrases

• "Downing Street says...": A common journalistic phrase used to report official statements or the position of the UK Prime Minister's office.

  • Downing Street says the meeting was "constructive."

• "From Downing Street to...": Used to indicate a directive or influence originating from the highest levels of the UK government.

  • The order came from Downing Street to all departments.

Học thuật

Noun

1. the British government
2. a street of Westminster in London
   • the Prime Minister lives at No. 10 Downing Street

Từ đồng nghĩa

• downing street