Definition

Noun: A voting method in which each voter's individual choice is kept confidential and anonymous, while the final, aggregated results of the vote are made public.

Usage

The term "secret ballot" is used to describe the standard, secure process in democratic elections and other formal votes. It emphasizes the privacy of the individual voter's decision, protecting them from coercion or influence, while ensuring the transparency of the overall election outcome.

Examples

• The new law guarantees the right to a secret ballot for all union members.
• The election was conducted by secret ballot to ensure its fairness and integrity.
• In a secret ballot, no one can know which candidate you voted for.

Advanced Usage

• "to be elected by secret ballot": Describes a selection process where voters cast anonymous votes.
  • The committee chairperson is elected by secret ballot.
• "the principle of the secret ballot": Refers to the fundamental democratic right of private voting.
  • The court's decision upheld the principle of the secret ballot.

Variants and Related Words

• Ballot (n): The process of voting, or the paper/device on which a vote is marked.
  • Please place your completed ballot in the box.
• Ballot box (n): A sealed box into which voters deposit their marked ballots.
• Australian ballot: A specific type of secret ballot where official ballots are printed at public expense, listing all candidates, and are marked in private.

Synonyms

• Private vote
• Anonymous ballot

Related Phrases

• Cast a secret ballot: To submit one's vote anonymously.
  • Citizens will cast a secret ballot in the upcoming referendum.

Noun

1. a vote in which each person's choice is secret but the totaled votes are public