key term - Plurality

Definition

In the context of elections within parliamentary and presidential systems, plurality refers to the condition or situation where a candidate or party receives more votes than any other but does not achieve an absolute majority. It is a common method for determining election winners in various political systems, particularly in single-member districts.

Related terms

Majority: A majority occurs when a candidate or party secures more than half of the total votes cast in an election.

Single: member district - This is an electoral district that elects one representative to a legislative body, often leading to plurality-based election outcomes.

Absolute majority: An absolute majority happens when more than 50% of all votes are cast for one candidate or party, surpassing the simple majority needed in some voting systems