IPA

Dictionary definition of faction

A group of people within a larger organization or society that have a common interest or goal and often act in opposition to the larger group.
"The faction split from the main group, forming a new political party."

Detailed meaning of faction

The term can be used in various contexts such as in politics, where it refers to a group of people who are united by a specific ideology or interest and who may act independently of a larger political party. In a religious or spiritual context, the term can refer to a group of people who follow a specific doctrine or interpretation of religious teachings. In a business or organizational context, a faction can be a group of employees who band together for their own interests and may act in opposition to the interests of the company or organization as a whole.

Factions can be formed for various reasons such as ideological, political, religious or personal. They can also be formed as a result of a split within an organization or group, and they can have a negative impact on the unity, stability and effectiveness of the larger group.

In short, a faction is a group of people within a larger organization or society that have a common interest or goal and often act in opposition to the larger group or to other factions within the organization, it can be formed for various reasons, and can have a negative impact on the unity, stability and effectiveness of the larger group.

Example sentences of faction

1. The political faction sought to influence policy decisions.
2. A faction within the party called for leadership change.
3. Factions can create divisions within a community.
4. The faction's agenda clashed with the party's platform.
5. In history, factions have triggered major conflicts.
6. The faction's members rallied behind a charismatic leader.

History and etymology of faction

The noun 'faction' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'factio,' which means 'a political or social group' or 'a party.' In ancient Rome, 'factio' was used to describe various political groups or factions that competed for power and influence within the city-state. Over time, the term was adopted into English to refer to any group of people within a larger organization or society that shares a common interest or goal and often acts in opposition to the larger group or its established authority. 'Faction' underscores the idea of division or rivalry within a larger entity, reflecting the historical context of political and social groups vying for influence and control. Its etymology highlights its connection to the dynamics of group conflict and competition, whether in politics, society, or other contexts.

Find the meaning of faction:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of faction

1. Finding common ground can unite opposing factions.
2. Factional infighting weakened the organization.
3. The faction pushed for reform from within.
4. The faction gained influence through strategic alliances.
5. Factions within the group had conflicting goals.
6. The faction's actions disrupted the peaceful protest.
7. Factional disputes often hinder progress.
8. Power struggles can emerge within political factions.
9. The faction's dissenting voice grew louder.
10. Factional rivalries can lead to power shifts.
11. The faction splintered into smaller subgroups.
12. A faction's rise can challenge established norms.
13. The faction's dissent sparked internal debates.
14. A faction can wield significant political influence.
15. Factions can form around shared ideologies.
16. Factionalism can fracture a once-unified organization.
17. The faction's agenda clashed with the leadership's vision.
18. In history, factions have shaped revolutions.
19. The faction sought to undermine the ruling party.
20. Factional disputes often slow down decision-making.
21. The faction's leaders strategized for influence.
22. Factions within the party had differing priorities.
23. The faction's members mobilized for change.
24. Factional infighting weakened the community's unity.