WordGarden.iomanifesto
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /mˌænɪfˈɛstəʊ/
US
- /ˌmænəˈfɛsˌtoʊ/
Meanings
Noun
a public statement of aims and policies, especially by a political movement or party
a forceful public statement of principles or intentions for a person, group, or project
Beyond the definition
A manifesto is more than a simple announcement. It is a bold, public statement of what a person or group believes and what they plan to do. You can picture political groups calling for change, or artists explaining the main ideas behind their work. The word first became common in politics, where groups published these texts to set out their goals before taking action. Today, you might also see a "design manifesto" that explains a creator's approach, or a "food manifesto" about sustainable eating. The main idea is simple: it lays out clear principles for everyone to see.
A manifesto is a public declaration of ideas, aims, and plans, especially for political or artistic movements. Originally, the word was used in politics. A well-known example is Karl Marx's Communist Manifesto, a document that set out a group of beliefs and a plan for major change. These early manifestos were often calls to action, urging people to join a cause and challenge the existing order.
However, the meaning has broadened over time. Today, a manifesto can be any forceful statement of intent or vision. Artists might publish a manifesto explaining their aesthetic philosophy, designers might outline their principles for user-centered design, or even businesses might release a "brand manifesto" to communicate their values and purpose.
The key characteristic of a manifesto is its assertive tone and clear articulation of beliefs. It's not just about what someone believes, but also why, and what they intend to do about it. A manifesto isn't shy; it wants to shake things up, challenge the status quo, and inspire others to join the cause.
So whether it's a call for political revolution or a statement of artistic intent, a manifesto is always a powerful declaration – a bold announcement of what someone stands for and where they intend to go.
Examples
- 1
Election
The party published its manifesto a month before the election.
- 2
Campaign promises
Their manifesto promises lower taxes and more money for schools.
- 3
Urban planning
In his manifesto, he argues that cities should be built for people, not cars.
- 4
Climate action
The group released a manifesto for climate action.
- Patternmanifesto for + cause/goal
a public statement supporting it
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Music identity
Her first album felt like a manifesto for a new kind of pop music.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- retraction
- private opinion
Used with (collocations)
- political manifesto
- publish a manifesto
- campaign manifesto
- manifesto for change
Explore
- ideology
- policy agenda
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- manifestonoun
Forms
- manifestospluralnoun