caucus
a meeting of party members to choose candidates or policy
In more detail
1. (noun) a private meeting of members of a political party to discuss party business or decide on candidates
2. (noun) a group of people with shared interests or concerns within a larger organization
Examples
- 1. The presidential candidates met with party members in a caucus to gain support for the upcoming election.
- 2. The women's caucus in Congress works to address gender-related policy issues.
How to use caucus
Caucus refers to a private or closed meeting, typically of political party members, often with the implication of deliberation before a larger public decision. It can also denote a group within a larger body united by shared policy goals or identity. The term carries a somewhat formal political connotation and is most common in American English, especially regarding primary elections.
Common phrases
- caucus meeting
- hold a caucus
- party caucus
- caucus system
- congressional caucus
Synonyms
meeting · committee · faction · group
Word family
caucus (noun) · caucuses (plural)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse caucus with general meetings or primaries; caucuses are specifically closed gatherings where party members deliberate and decide, distinct from open primary elections.
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