Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In a way that relates to government, politics, or the state: Pertaining to the activities, actions, or principles associated with governing a country or area, or with the power relationships within a group.
   • In a way that relates to the organization or status of groups in society: Concerning social relationships, especially those involving authority, power, or public affairs.
   • In a shrewd, tactful, or expedient manner: Acting with practical wisdom, often implying careful consideration of consequences, especially in social or public contexts.

Usage Examples

• Relating to government or politics:

  • The region is politically unstable. (The stability of the region is connected to its government and power structures.)
  • She is politically active, campaigning for environmental policies. (Her activities are directed toward influencing government policy.)

• Relating to social authority or power:

  • The decision was politically motivated. (The decision was driven by considerations of power or influence within the organization.)
  • He navigated the office politically, forming key alliances. (He managed social and power relationships within the office shrewdly.)

• In a shrewd or tactful manner:

  • It would be politically wise to avoid that topic. (It would be tactically smart, considering social perceptions, to avoid that subject.)
  • She answered the question very politically. (She gave an answer that was carefully crafted to be inoffensive and expedient.)

Advanced Usage

• "Politically correct" (often abbreviated as PC): Conforming to a belief that language and practices should avoid offending or disadvantaging particular groups in society.
  • Using inclusive language is considered politically correct.
• "Politically charged": Filled with or causing strong political tension or emotion.
  • The debate over the new law is highly politically charged.
• "Politically motivated": Done for reasons related to gaining or maintaining political power, rather than for stated principles.
  • The criticism was dismissed as politically motivated.

Variants and Related Words

• Political (adj): Of or relating to government, public affairs, or politics.
  • A political party; a political issue.
• Politic (adj, formal): (Of an action) seeming sensible and judicious under the circumstances; prudent.
  • It would not be politic to ignore their advice.
• Politician (n): A person who is professionally involved in politics, especially as a holder of an elected office.
  • The politician gave a speech.

Synonyms

• Governmentally: In a manner relating to government.
• Tactfully: With sensitivity and skill in dealing with others or with difficult issues.
• Expediently: In a way that is convenient and practical, although possibly improper or immoral.

Related Phrases

• Politically speaking: From a political point of view; when considering the political aspects.
  • Politically speaking, the policy is a success, even if it's unpopular.
• Play it politically: To act in a shrewd, calculating way to achieve a goal within a power structure.
  • He decided to play it politically and support the popular candidate.

Related Idioms

• A political football: An issue that is exploited by politicians or groups for their own advantage.
  • Healthcare reform has become a political football.
• The political arena: The sphere or world of political activity and competition.
  • She is a formidable figure in the political arena.

Adverb

1. with regard to government
   • politically organized units
2. with regard to social relationships involving authority
   • politically correct clothing