centralized state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "centralized state" is correct and can be used in written English.
Example: "The country's government was structured as a centralized state, with all decision-making power resting in the hands of a single ruler."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

In a corrupt, highly centralized state, merit becomes irrelevant.

The New York Times

It's true that Singapore, a highly centralized state, has been ruled for decades by Mr. Lee's People's Action Party.

The New York Times

On one level, the urges follow sentiments familiar to anyone who has lived in a tightly controlled centralized state.

The New York Times

The country, like its neighbors, has relied heavily on foreign investment to rebuild itself from the ruins of the formerly centralized state economy.

The New York Times

While the 1978 constitution reflected this stance, it also was the product of compromise with the political right, which preferred that Spain remain a highly centralized state.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The 1921 constitution established a highly centralized state, under the Serbian Karadjordjević dynasty, in which legislative power was exercised jointly by the monarchy and the Skupština (assembly).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

In the course of a decade, we went from a highly centralized, state-controlled economy to an economy with about two million small and medium-sized businesses, which have become the foundation for Poland's economic modernization.

The New York Times

Centralized states are deficit-prone precisely because they tend to be gamed by lobbyists and large corporations, which increase their size in order to get the protection of bailouts.

The New York Times

1530 Angers, France June 1596 Laon, France Jean Bodin, (born 1530, Angers, France died June 1596, Laon) French political philosopher whose exposition of the principles of stable government was widely influential in Europe at a time when medieval systems were giving way to centralized states.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Even more important would be computerizing and centralizing state campaign finance data (some counties are still in the typewriter age).

The New York Times

Between the middle of the 3rd and the end of the 2nd century bce, the rulers of Qin began to centralize state power, creating a rigid system of laws that were applicable throughout the country and dividing the state into a series of commanderies and prefectures ruled by officials appointed by the central government.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing political systems, use "centralized state" to clearly indicate a structure where authority and decision-making are concentrated at the national level. This term is particularly useful in contrasting it with federal or decentralized systems.

Common error

Avoid using "centralized state" interchangeably with "authoritarian state". Centralization refers to the structure of power distribution, while authoritarianism describes the nature of governance, which may or may not be related to centralization. Consider using "authoritarian state" to specifically focus on the type of government rather than the distribution of power.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "centralized state" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It describes a political entity where the governing power is concentrated in a central authority. Ludwig AI validates the grammatical correctness and common usage of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "centralized state" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that describes a political system where power is concentrated at the national level. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide usage across multiple contexts. While predominantly found in News & Media and Encyclopedias, its meaning remains consistent across different sources. When using the phrase, be mindful of its distinct meaning and avoid confusing it with related but different concepts such as "authoritarian state".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unitary state

Focuses on the unified structure of the government, emphasizing a single authority.

highly centralized government

Highlights the degree of centralization, adding emphasis to the concentration of power.

centralized authority

Emphasizes the concentration of power or control in a single entity.

state with central control

Indicates that the state exercises a high degree of control from the center.

government with centralized power

Emphasizes the concentration of governing power in a central entity.

state with concentrated power

Highlights the concentration of power within the state structure.

authoritarian state

Implies a strong, often oppressive, central power with limited individual freedoms.

top-down governance

Focuses on the direction of authority from the highest levels down.

centralized regime

Emphasizes the system of government and its centralized nature.

federation with strong central government

Highlights the contrast between a federal structure and a dominant central authority.

FAQs

How is a "centralized state" different from a federal state?

A "centralized state" concentrates power at the national level, whereas a federal state divides power between a central government and regional or local governments. In a federal system, regional entities have a degree of autonomy that is absent in a "centralized state".

What are some examples of "centralized states" in the world?

Examples of "centralized states" include France and China, where the national government has significant control over regional affairs and policy implementation.

What are the potential benefits of a "centralized state"?

Potential benefits of a "centralized state" include greater efficiency in policy implementation, uniform standards across the country, and a stronger national identity. However, this can come at the expense of local autonomy and responsiveness.

Are there alternatives to calling something a "centralized state"?

Yes, you could use phrases like "unitary state" or "centralized authority", depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.