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Mandate

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. An official order or command to do something.
2. The authority given to a government or organization to carry out a policy or course of action.
3. A written document or directive that requires action, often used in legal or political contexts.
4. A commission or instruction granted to someone to perform specific tasks or duties.
5. In politics, the authority or power granted by the electorate to a leader or party to carry out their agenda.

History and Origin

The word “mandate” comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning “something commanded” or “an order.” It is derived from the verb mandare, which means “to order” or “to entrust.” The term has been used in English since the 16th century, originally in the context of giving orders or instructions. Over time, it evolved to include legal and political applications, particularly in relation to the authority or responsibility given to individuals or bodies to carry out certain tasks or policies. The concept of a “mandate” gained significant political importance during the 20th century in contexts such as elections and international governance.

Detailed Explanation

A “mandate” is an official command or instruction, often accompanied by the authority to enforce it. In politics, it refers to the power given to a government, leader, or political party by the electorate to implement their policies and make decisions on behalf of the people. It can also describe a legal or administrative order issued by an authority, requiring specific actions to be taken. A mandate might also be a directive granted to an individual or organization to perform particular tasks or achieve certain objectives, often with a degree of legal or moral obligation. In international contexts, mandates have historically referred to the authority granted by international bodies to govern or administer a territory.

Example Sentences

1. The president received a mandate from the people to reform the healthcare system.
2. The new law mandates that all businesses comply with environmental regulations.
3. The organization was given a mandate to address the climate crisis through global cooperation.
4. After the election, the party interpreted their victory as a mandate to push forward with their policies.
5. The mandate required the team to complete the project by the end of the fiscal year.
6. The United Nations issued a mandate to provide humanitarian aid to the affected region.
7. The company was under a mandate to increase production within the next quarter.
8. The mandate from the board of directors was clear: the merger must proceed without delay.
9. The government issued a mandate to all citizens to adhere to the new public health guidelines.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Order – A directive or instruction given by an authority, similar to a mandate.
2. Directive – An official instruction or command, often related to a course of action, much like a mandate.
3. Command – An authoritative order, similar to a mandate in its power and necessity.
4. Authorization – Permission or power granted to carry out a task, often used in legal or official contexts.
5. Instruction – A detailed guideline or order on how to perform a specific task, akin to a mandate.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Authority – The power or right to give orders and make decisions, similar to the power behind a mandate.
2. Delegation – The act of entrusting authority or responsibility to others, often as part of fulfilling a mandate.
3. Obligation – A duty or responsibility, which can arise from a mandate.
4. Responsibility – The state of being accountable for something, often in the context of fulfilling a mandate.
5. Governance – The act or process of governing, which can be shaped by mandates granted to governments or organizations.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Charge – A responsibility or duty assigned to someone, often implied by a mandate.
2. Consent – Permission given, often associated with the granting of a mandate by an electorate or authority.
3. Empowerment – The process of giving authority or power, similar to the act of granting a mandate.
4. Approval – Official agreement or endorsement, often required before a mandate is executed.
5. Commission – An instruction or authority given to perform a task, akin to a mandate.

Antonyms

1. Refusal
2. Rejection
3. Disapproval
4. Denial
5. Obstruction