confirmation hearing

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Explanation of "Confirmation Hearing"

Definition: A "confirmation hearing" is a meeting held by the U.S. Senate. During this meeting, senators gather information to decide whether to approve or reject people who have been chosen by the president for important government jobs.

Usage Instructions

• The term is used in a political context, especially in discussions about the U.S. government.
• It is typically used when talking about nominees for high federal positions, such as judges, cabinet members, or ambassadors.

Example Sentence

• "The confirmation hearing for the new Supreme Court justice was attended by many senators who asked tough questions."

Advanced Usage

• In discussions about government processes or political science, you might say:
  • "The confirmation hearing is a critical step in the checks and balances of the U.S. government."

Word Variants

• Confirm (verb): To state that something is true or to agree to something.
  • Example: "The committee will confirm the nominee after the hearing."
• Confirmation (noun): The act of confirming something.
  • Example: "Her confirmation as Secretary of State received bipartisan support."

Different Meanings

In a broader sense, "confirmation hearing" can refer to any type of meeting where someone is evaluated or questioned about their qualifications for a position. However, it is most commonly associated with the U.S. Senate.

Synonyms

• Hearing: A meeting where people are questioned or information is presented, though this term is more general.
• Nomination hearing: Sometimes used interchangeably, but specifically refers to hearings for nominees.

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• "Go through the process": This phrase means to follow the necessary steps or procedures, such as a confirmation hearing.

  • Example: "All nominees must go through the process before they can take office."

• "Vote in favor of": To support a candidate or idea during a confirmation hearing.

  • Example: "Several senators voted in favor of the nominee after the confirmation hearing."

Summary

A "confirmation hearing" is an important event in the U.S. Senate where senators decide whether to approve or reject nominees proposed by the president for high government positions. Understanding this term can help you follow U.S.

Academic

Noun

1. a hearing held by the US Senate to gather information on whether to approve or reject candidates for high federal office who are nominated by the president