WordValedecentralization
transferring power from central to local government
In more detail
1. (noun) the process of transferring power, control, or decision-making from a central authority to smaller regional or local groups
2. (noun) a system or structure where power and responsibility are spread among many locations or organizations rather than concentrated in one place
Examples
- 1. The government promoted decentralization by giving more authority to local councils.
- 2. Decentralization in business means that branch offices can make their own decisions without needing approval from headquarters.
How to use decentralization
Decentralization refers to the structural or administrative process of shifting authority downward from a central body to regional or local entities. It is commonly used in political, organizational, and technological contexts, and often carries a positive connotation of increasing local autonomy and responsiveness, though it can also imply loss of unified control.
Common phrases
- decentralization of power
- decentralization of government
- decentralization of decision-making
- promote decentralization
- decentralization efforts
Synonyms
devolution · distribution of power · localization · delegation · dispersion of authority
Opposites
centralization · concentration of power
Word family
decentralize (verb) · decentralized (adjective) · decentralizing (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners often confuse decentralization with decentralization of information or data only, when it actually requires a genuine transfer of decision-making power and responsibility, not merely distribution of data.
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