republics - Master This Word
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republics Word Meanings
- a system of government in which the people elect representatives.
- a state in which the supreme power rests with the people.
- a political entity organized as a republic.
republics Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
republics Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈpʌblɪk/
US
/rɪˈpʌblɪk/
republics Word Etymology
re- = back, public = people; historically originated from Latin 'res publica' meaning 'public matter'; visualize a public square where citizens gather to debate and decide the fate of their community.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I push a heavy door and step into a meeting room, the air buzzing with voices. People take turns speaking, and ideas shift like cards in a hand. I adjust my posture, listen closely, and keep my attention on what's being said. The sense that power belongs to the people grows here, and the room begins to hint at what a republic can be.
Real Context
A republic is a form of government in which the people do not rule directly but elect representatives to make policy and govern on their behalf. The core idea is that political power rests with the citizens and is exercised under a system of laws, checks and balances, and constitutional limits that protect individual rights. In practice, republics vary: some maintain strong parliamentary systems, others rely on a strong executive; most publish official accounts, hold regular elections, and allow peaceful change of government. The term emphasizes accountability, rule of law, and the idea that rulers derive authority from the people, not from birth or force.
Usage Reminders
- Remember that republic refers to government by elected representatives.
- Do not confuse with a democracy in everyday speech; many republics are democratic, but the terms emphasize law and accountability.
- Use 'republic' for formal political contexts and when naming states like 'the Republic of X'.
- Be aware that different republics implement the idea in varied ways.
- Check constitutional limits and the presence of checks and balances when describing a system.
- Practice with country examples to see how the term is used in real contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- A republic is exactly the same as a democracy in all respects.
- Republic means there is no elections or political parties.
- All republics have the same institutions and practices.
- A republic cannot have a monarch at all times.
- Republic equals a modern Western model only.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: The republic concept in English emphasizes legal limits and representation, but other languages may translate 'republic' as 'commonwealth' or treat it differently; learners often assume all republics are democracies, or confuse with 'republican' as a political party.
Learning Tips
- Remember the core idea: power rests with the people under law.
- Pair 'republic' with 'constitutional' to emphasize limits.
- Learn country names that use 'Republic of' in official titles.
- Differentiate republic from democracy in everyday usage.
- Study examples of different republics to see varied practices.
- Practice translating official texts and constitutional excerpts.
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