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politicking

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /pəˈlɪtɪkɪŋ/

KK: /pəˈlɪtɪkɪŋ/

noun
Definition

The act of participating in political activities or campaigns, often involving discussions, debates, or strategies to influence decisions.


Example

The politicking during the election season can be quite intense as candidates try to win over voters.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about all the politicking going on in the city council?
Sloth B
Yeah, it seems like every decision is turning into a big debate.
Sloth A
I know! Sometimes I wish they would just focus on the issues instead of the politicking.
Sloth B
Right? It would make things so much easier for everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
campaigning
lobbying
maneuvering
Antonyms
apathy
indifference
disengagement
verb
Definition

The act of engaging in political activities or discussions, often with the aim of gaining an advantage or influence.


Example

The candidates spent the entire summer politicking to win the support of voters.


Tense Forms

Past: politicked

Past Participle: politicked


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how much politicking there was during the debate last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was like a competition to see who could manipulate the facts better!
Sloth A
I know, right? It makes me wonder if they even care about the real issues.
Root Explanation

Politicking is derived from "politic" (from Old French *politique*, meaning relating to government or politics) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process of). The term refers to the act of engaging in political activities or maneuvering for political advantage.

Memory Tip

Think of 'politic' as relating to government and remember that 'politicking' means engaging in political activities.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
Exactly! Sometimes it feels more like a game than actual politics.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
campaigning
lobbying
maneuvering
Antonyms
neglecting
ignoring
disregarding