cross-file: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Political, Legal
Quick answer
What does “cross-file” mean?
To submit the necessary paperwork to become an official candidate for multiple political parties or positions simultaneously, typically in an election.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To submit the necessary paperwork to become an official candidate for multiple political parties or positions simultaneously, typically in an election.
In broader contexts, it can metaphorically refer to registering or applying under multiple categories or affiliations, though this is rare.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is predominantly American, as the UK's 'first-past-the-post' electoral system and party structures do not typically allow for this practice. In the UK, similar concepts might be 'standing for multiple parties' but the specific verb 'cross-file' is not standard.
Connotations
In US politics, it can imply pragmatism, broad appeal, or political maneuvering. It may carry a slightly negative connotation of opportunism.
Frequency
Very high frequency in US political journalism and legal texts during election seasons; virtually absent in British English.
Grammar
How to Use “cross-file” in a Sentence
[Candidate] cross-files [for office/with party].[Candidate] cross-filed [as a Democrat and Republican].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cross-file” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The candidate sought to cross-file, but UK electoral law made it impossible.
American English
- She cross-filed to appear on both the Democratic and Independent primary ballots.
adjective
British English
- The cross-filing tactic is largely irrelevant in British elections.
American English
- They discussed the state's cross-filing rules during the campaign seminar.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in political science papers discussing electoral systems, particularly in US state politics (e.g., historical use in California).
Everyday
Rare, only in discussions about local or state elections where the practice is permitted.
Technical
Specific to election law and political campaign terminology.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cross-file”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cross-file”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cross-file”
- Using it as a noun (e.g., 'He did a cross-file'). It is primarily a verb. Confusing it with 'cross-reference' in files/documents.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is only permitted under specific state or local election laws, primarily in the United States.
To broaden a candidate's voter base by appearing on the ballot for more than one political party, often to secure a nomination or appeal to independent voters.
Its use outside of electoral contexts is extremely rare and non-standard. It should not be confused with 'cross-reference' in general document handling.
The related noun is 'cross-filing,' as in 'The practice of cross-filing was abolished in that state.'
To submit the necessary paperwork to become an official candidate for multiple political parties or positions simultaneously, typically in an election.
Cross-file is usually formal, political, legal in register.
Cross-file: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkrɒs ˈfaɪl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkrɔːs ˈfaɪl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “He's playing both sides of the aisle (related concept).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a candidate physically carrying a file (application) and CROSSING over from one party's office to another's to submit it.
Conceptual Metaphor
POLITICAL STRATEGY IS NAVIGATION (crossing boundaries between parties).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'cross-file' most accurately used?