straw vote

/'strɔ:'vout/

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Word: Straw Vote

Definition: A "straw vote" is an unofficial vote taken to see what people think about a particular issue or topic. It is not a formal ballot and does not count in an official way. Instead, it is used to gauge public opinion or to see which option is more popular.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "straw vote" when discussing opinions, decisions, or preferences in a group setting.
• It’s commonly used in contexts like meetings, surveys, or informal discussions.

Example Sentence:

• "Before making a final decision, the committee held a straw vote to see how everyone felt about the new policy."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced discussions, you might encounter "straw vote" in political contexts, where it helps politicians understand public sentiment before a formal vote takes place.

Word Variants:

• Straw Poll: This is a similar term that can be used interchangeably with "straw vote." It also refers to an informal survey of opinion.

Different Meanings:

• The term "straw" in "straw vote" does not refer to the material used for drinking; it indicates something temporary or insubstantial, like a "straw" in the wind that suggests direction but is not strong.

Synonyms:

• Informal poll
• Opinion poll
• Survey
• Quick vote

Related Idioms:

There are no specific idioms directly related to "straw vote," but you might use phrases like: - "Test the waters" (to see how people feel about something before making a decision).

Phrasal Verbs:

There aren’t any specific phrasal verbs that directly relate to "straw vote," but you can use phrasal verbs like: - "Vote on" (to formally express a choice). - "Bring up" (to introduce a topic for discussion).

Summary:

A "straw vote" is a helpful way to understand what people think about an issue before making a formal decision.

Academic

Noun

1. an unofficial vote taken to determine opinion on some issue

Synonyms

• straw poll