WordGarden.ioelectorally
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪlˈɛktərəli/
US
- /ɪlˈɛktərəli/
Meanings
Adverb
in relation to elections, voting, or electoral success
Beyond the definition
"Electorally" describes something from the point of view of elections or vote-winning. It is often used when talking about how strong, weak, helpful, or risky a person, party, idea, or strategy is in an election. A candidate might be electorally strong in one region, meaning they are likely to win a lot of support there. Analysts may also talk about whether a policy helps a party electorally, meaning it could improve its chances with voters.
The word "electorally" is an adverb derived from "electoral," which means relating to elections. It is used to describe something in terms of elections, voting strength, or the ability to gain public support at the ballot box. In many cases, it does not simply mean "during an election." More often, it means "from the perspective of electoral success."
For example, a candidate may be called "electorally strong" if they are likely to attract many votes. A policy might be described as "electorally useful" if it helps a party appeal to voters. A region can also be discussed electorally when analysts compare how different groups vote there and what that means for the result.
You will often see the word in political reporting, academic writing, and election analysis. It commonly appears in phrases like "electorally important," "electorally damaging," or "electorally competitive." In these cases, the idea is not just that something is connected to elections, but that it affects how well someone may do with voters.
A news article might say, "The party changed its message to help itself electorally." This means the change was meant to improve its chances of winning votes, not just to express an idea. Overall, "electorally" is a political word used when the focus is on elections, voter support, and the chances of winning.
Examples
- 1
Regional strength
The party has done well electorally in the north for years.
- 2
Political risk
The reform was popular with activists but risky electorally.
- 3
Swing districts
She may be less charismatic than her rival, yet she is stronger electorally in swing districts.
- 4
Coalition strategy
The coalition looked awkward, but electorally it made sense.
See also
Similar
- in electoral terms
- at the ballot box
- at the polls
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- nonelectorally
- administratively
Used with (collocations)
- electorally successful
- electorally viable
- electorally important
Word family
Explore
- election
- voter turnout
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- electorallyadverb