Part of Speech

Adverb

Pronunciation

/dɪˈmɒkrətɪkli/

Definitions

• In a manner consistent with the principles of democracy, involving equal participation and representation.
• In a way that supports or advocates democratic principles or processes.

Usage Examples

• The country strives to govern democratically, ensuring all voices are heard in the decision-making process.
• The board members met democratically to determine the best course of action for the organization.
• All citizens should have the right to vote and participate democratically in their nation's elections.

Etymology

The word "democratically" derives from "democratic," which comes from the Greek "demokratia" meaning "rule of the people," formed by "demos" (people) and "kratos" (power). The adverbial form, "-ally," indicates a manner or way of acting. Therefore, "democratically" refers to actions or behaviors conducted in accordance with the principles of democracy.

Synonyms

• Equally
• Fairly
• Justly
• Impartially

Antonyms

• Authoritarianly
• Autocratically
• Dictatorially
• Unfairly

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The word "democratically" is usually pronounced consistently across English-speaking regions, with the most notable difference being in the speed of speech. In American English, the emphasis is often on the first syllable, whereas in British English, the second syllable might be more emphasized, though this is a minor variation.

Historical Usage

"Democratically" has been used since the 19th century, following the widespread adoption of democratic ideals in the Western world. As democracy became more globally accepted, the term has been frequently used to describe actions, processes, or governance that adheres to the principles of political equality, public participation, and fair representation. It is often found in political contexts, social movements, and scholarly discussions of governance.

Cultural Nuances

The use of "democratically" implies not just adherence to political systems but also a cultural belief in fairness and equality. It often suggests that the process or decision-making is conducted in a transparent and inclusive manner. In various cultures, the use of the word reinforces the importance of citizen involvement and political equality as core values.

More Information

The adverb "democratically" denotes the practice or manner of engaging in activities, processes, or governance according to democratic principles. This can involve elements such as equal voting, public participation, and respect for individual rights and freedoms. The term is often used in discussions about political systems, societal fairness, and just governance, where the primary focus is on ensuring all individuals are equally involved in decision-making.