Definition

Relating to a political system where different social groups, such as ethnic or religious groups, share power and work together to maintain stability and cooperation.

Example

The country adopted a consociational approach to ensure that all ethnic groups had a voice in the government.

Conversation

Have you read about that country's consociational government structure?

Yeah, it’s interesting how they manage to keep peace among different groups.

I wonder if that kind of system could work elsewhere.

It might, especially where there are many divided communities.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Consociational → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "socius" (meaning companion or ally) and the suffix "-al" (meaning relating to). The word describes a system that relates to or involves companions or allies working together, often in a political context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'together' ('con-') and 'companions' ('socius') to remember that 'consociational' refers to a system where allies or companions work together.

Visually Confused Words