What does political mean?
Political means connected with government, public policy, political parties, or the pursuit and use of power. Its meaning is broader than merely referring to elections or elected officials: a political issue may concern rights, institutions, representation, ideology, or the distribution of public power. The adjective can also carry a critical connotation, suggesting that a decision or tactic is motivated by political advantage rather than by practical or moral considerations alone. In everyday use, something is called political when it concerns relations between the state and citizens or between competing political groups. The word comes from the Greek term politētikos, derived from politēs, meaning “citizen.” Related forms include “politics,” “politician,” and “politically,” all reflecting the central idea of civic organization and collective decision-making.
adjectiveRelating to politics, government, public policy, or organized political activity. It can also describe a position, belief, or tactic arising from political considerations.
- Relating to politics, government, or the exercise of public power.
- Relating to a political party, ideology, or set of beliefs.
- Concerned with gaining or retaining political advantage rather than merely with policy or administration.
"The reform was deeply political because it reshaped the relationship between the government and the public."
"The committee examined the political consequences of the proposed legislation."
"She avoided discussing the issue because she regarded the question as too political."
Political begins with an ancient Greek idea: government is the business of citizens.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does political come from?
The word entered English through French political, which was derived from the Greek politētikos, “pertaining to a citizen” or “civic.” The Greek stem was based on politēs, meaning “citizen,” from politēs or polis, referring to a city or civic community. Words such as “politics,” “politician,” and “citizen” developed within this wider family of Greek civic and governmental concepts.
Related word forms
How political is actually used
In British English, the adjective is commonly pronounced with initial stress, /ˈpɒlɪtɪkəl/; in American English, initial stress is less usual, and /pəˈlɪtɪkəl/ is common. The phrase “political animal” refers to someone deeply interested in or skilled at political activity.