indirect primary
Definition
Noun: An indirect primary is a type of primary election in which voters do not directly choose a party's candidate for office. Instead, they elect delegates who then select the candidate at a convention or similar meeting. This process is used in some political systems, particularly in the United States.
Usage Examples
- (Voters choose representatives, not the final candidate.)
- (The vote is for delegates, not the candidate directly.)
- (Influence is mediated through delegate selection.)
Advanced Usage
"to hold an indirect primary": to conduct a primary election where delegates are chosen.
- The party decided to hold an indirect primary to allow more grassroots involvement. (The election was structured to elect delegates first.)
"indirect primary versus direct primary": a comparison between election methods. In a direct primary, voters choose the candidate directly; in an indirect primary, they choose delegates.
- The shift from an indirect primary to a direct primary gave voters more direct control. (The change altered how candidates are selected.)
Variants and Related Words
- Primary (n): a preliminary election to select a party's candidate.
- The primary election is scheduled for March. (The election to choose candidates.)
- Delegate (n): a person chosen to represent others at a convention.
- The delegates voted for the candidate at the national convention. (Representatives selected in the primary.)
- Direct primary (n): a primary where voters choose the candidate directly.
- Most states use a direct primary system. (Voters directly pick the candidate.)
Synonyms
- Delegated primary: a primary where delegates are elected to choose the candidate.
- Convention primary: a primary that leads to a nominating convention.
Related Idioms
- "to go through the motions": to perform a process without direct effect, which can describe an indirect primary if voters feel their choice is less immediate.
- Some voters feel the indirect primary is just going through the motions. (They perceive it as less impactful than a direct vote.)