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filibuster

Filibuster (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ˈfɪlɪbʌstə/

What does filibuster mean?

A political tactic used to delay or prevent a vote on a bill or other legislative measure by talking for an extended period of time.
"The senator launched a lengthy filibuster to delay the passing of the controversial bill."

Detailed Meaning of Filibuster

Filibusters are often used by members of a legislative body to delay or prevent a vote on a bill or other measure that they oppose. The goal of a filibuster is to use up the time allotted for debate in order to prevent a vote from taking place.

Filibusters can be done by a single individual or a group of individuals, and they can take many forms. In the United States Senate, for example, a filibuster can involve a senator giving a long speech on the floor of the Senate in order to delay or prevent a vote. In other countries, similar tactics are used, such as "talking out a bill" in the UK Parliament.

Filibusters can be used as a way to draw attention to an issue or to express opposition to a bill. They can also be used as a way to gain concessions or changes to a bill. However, Filibusters can also be seen as a way of obstructionism, preventing the legislative process from moving forward, and can be criticized as undemocratic. Some legislative bodies have rules in place to limit or end filibusters, such as the use of "cloture" in the US Senate.

Example Sentences for Filibuster

1. The filibuster lasted for hours, with the senator refusing to yield the floor.
2. Despite exhaustion, the determined politician continued the filibuster into the night.
3. The filibuster finally came to an end when the senator's voice gave out.
4. Filibusters can be a powerful tool for minority parties to block legislation.
5. A filibuster can be a dramatic and attention-grabbing political maneuver.
6. The filibuster drew widespread media coverage and public attention.

Origin and Etymology of Filibuster

The noun 'filibuster' has its etymological origins in Spanish and Dutch. It comes from the Spanish word 'filibustero,' which originally referred to pirates or adventurers who engaged in unauthorized military activities in the West Indies during the 18th century. The term was later adopted into Dutch as 'vrijbuiter,' with a similar meaning. In the context of politics, particularly in the United States, 'filibuster' evolved to describe a political tactic used to delay or prevent a vote on a bill or other legislative measure by talking for an extended period of time or engaging in obstructive parliamentary maneuvers. The etymology of 'filibuster' reflects its historical association with tactics that disrupt or hinder established processes, similar to the way pirates disrupted maritime activities. While the term's modern usage is rooted in parliamentary procedures, its origins lie in a more adventurous and unruly context.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun filibuster:

advance

further

obstruction

expedite

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Filibuster

1. Some argue that the filibuster is a necessary check on majority power.
2. Others believe that the filibuster is often used to obstruct progress.
3. Filibusters can be a test of a senator's endurance and speaking ability.
4. The filibuster rule requires senators to speak continuously to maintain control of the floor.
5. During a filibuster, senators can read from books or recite historical speeches.
6. The filibuster tactic is often criticized for its potential to stifle legislative action.
7. In recent years, there has been debate about reforming the filibuster rule.
8. Senators from both parties have used the filibuster to advance their agendas.
9. The filibuster can lead to tense and dramatic moments in the Senate chamber.
10. Some argue that the filibuster should be abolished to promote more efficient governance.
11. The filibuster can be a tool for senators to draw attention to important issues.
12. The filibuster remains a controversial and complex aspect of American politics.
13. The senator launched a marathon filibuster to block the bill.
14. Filibuster tactics can stall important legislation indefinitely.
15. The filibuster drew national attention to the issue at hand.
16. Lawmakers used the filibuster to halt the controversial proposal.
17. A filibuster can test the endurance of even the most vocal senators.
18. Critics argue that the filibuster impedes the legislative process.
19. Senators sometimes resort to a filibuster as a last-ditch effort.
20. The filibuster finally ended after hours of passionate debate.
21. The filibuster showcased the senator's dedication to the cause.
22. Reforming the filibuster rules is a contentious political issue.
23. The filibuster can be a powerful tool for minority party members.