straw vote: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal
Quick answer
What does “straw vote” mean?
An unofficial, non-binding vote or poll taken to gauge opinion or predict the likely outcome of a formal vote.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An unofficial, non-binding vote or poll taken to gauge opinion or predict the likely outcome of a formal vote.
A preliminary test of opinion, often conducted in an informal or unofficial manner, used by organizations, political groups, or committees to assess support before committing to a formal decision-making process.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is used in both varieties but is more commonly employed in American political journalism. British English might more frequently use 'straw poll'.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes a preliminary, informal measure. In American politics, it has a specific connotation related to early primary/caucus states.
Frequency
Higher frequency in American English, particularly in political reporting. Lower frequency in general British English.
Grammar
How to Use “straw vote” in a Sentence
[Subject] conducted/held a straw vote on [Issue/Topic]A straw vote was taken to [Purpose]The results of the straw vote indicated/suggested [Outcome]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “straw vote” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The committee decided to straw-vote on the motion first.
- We'll straw-vote to get a sense of the room.
American English
- The chair allowed the delegates to straw-vote on the platform plank.
- Let's straw-vote before we draft the final resolution.
adverb
British English
- The motion was voted on straw-vote first.
- (Rarely used as adverb)
American English
- They decided straw-vote to gauge support.
- (Rarely used as adverb)
adjective
British English
- The straw-vote results were surprisingly clear.
- They dismissed the straw-vote tally as irrelevant.
American English
- The straw-vote outcome predicted the final convention vote.
- He paid close attention to the straw-vote data from Iowa.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in boardrooms or management meetings to gauge initial support for a proposal before a formal board vote.
Academic
Used in political science and sociology to describe informal methods of measuring group opinion.
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation; might be used in club or society meetings.
Technical
A specific term in political methodology and organisational procedure.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “straw vote”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “straw vote”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “straw vote”
- Using it to mean a final, decisive vote.
- Confusing 'straw vote' with 'primary election' (which is formal).
- Misspelling as 'straw vote' (correct) vs. 'straw poll' (synonym).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, a straw vote is explicitly non-binding and unofficial. Its purpose is informational and predictive.
In practice, they are synonyms. 'Straw poll' is perhaps slightly more common in general usage, while 'straw vote' might be preferred in more formal procedural contexts.
They are frequently used in political party meetings (e.g., U.S. party caucuses), organisational committees, academic settings, and any group seeking to informally assess member opinion before a formal decision.
Yes, absolutely. While not binding, the results can shape strategy, reveal coalition strength, create momentum for a candidate or idea, and sometimes pressure opponents to withdraw.
An unofficial, non-binding vote or poll taken to gauge opinion or predict the likely outcome of a formal vote.
Straw vote: in British English it is pronounced /strɔː ˈvəʊt/, and in American English it is pronounced /strɔ ˈvoʊt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A straw in the wind (related concept)”
- “Testing the waters”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a farmer throwing straw into the air to see which way the wind blows. A 'straw vote' is a quick, unofficial test to see which way opinion is blowing.
Conceptual Metaphor
OPINION IS A FORCE OF NATURE (to be measured/gauged). PRELIMINARY ACTION IS A TEST.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of a straw vote?