mere electioneering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mere electioneering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe activities or actions that are solely focused on campaigning or promoting a candidate, often implying a lack of substance or seriousness. Example: "The politician's speech was nothing more than mere electioneering, lacking any real policy proposals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Presumably, this was mere electioneering.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Far from giving the magistrates a hand, the prime minister was, it seems, merely electioneering.

The Economist

But though the moment for the change has come again and again it has never been effected, because capitalism has never produced the necessary enlightenment among the masses, nor admitted to a controlling share in public affairs the order of intellect and character outside which Socialism, or indeed politics, as distinguished from mere party electioneering, is incomprehensible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Neither does the electioneering.

The New York Times

Is that really "electioneering"?

The New York Times

We were electioneering".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Electioneering also presents a problem.

The New York Times

This is the new electioneering.

The New York Times

Welcome to electioneering Brownlee style.

The Guardian - Sport

What follows is ruthless electioneering.

The New York Times

Spending on electioneering has shot up, too.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "mere electioneering" to convey that certain actions are primarily motivated by electoral gain, often suggesting a lack of genuine concern or substance.

Common error

Avoid using "mere electioneering" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive and cynical. Use it sparingly for maximum impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mere electioneering" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "mere" modifies the noun "electioneering". It often serves to discredit or downplay the actions being described, implying they are solely for political gain. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Social Media

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mere electioneering" is a phrase used to describe political actions primarily motivated by electoral gain, often implying a lack of genuine concern or substance. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While frequently found in news and media contexts, it's crucial to use it judiciously to avoid sounding overly cynical. Related phrases, such as "simple campaigning" or "political maneuvering", can provide alternative ways to convey similar ideas with slightly different nuances. When using the phrase, remember that it carries a slightly negative connotation which can add emotional meaning to the text.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simple campaigning

Focuses on the act of campaigning without the implication of insincerity.

just political maneuvering

Highlights the strategic and tactical aspects of political activity.

purely election-focused activity

Emphasizes the exclusive focus on election-related activities.

solely campaign-driven actions

Stresses that actions are motivated only by the campaign.

exclusively political posturing

Suggests a focus on creating a favorable image rather than genuine action.

empty campaign promises

Highlights the lack of substance behind campaign pledges.

superficial political efforts

Suggests a lack of depth and meaningful engagement.

shallow electioneering tactics

Emphasizes the superficial nature of campaign strategies.

opportunistic campaigning

Focuses on the exploitative aspect of the campaign.

insincere political promotion

Highlights the lack of authenticity in promoting political agendas.

FAQs

How can I use "mere electioneering" in a sentence?

You can use "mere electioneering" to describe actions or statements that are solely intended to win votes, often implying a lack of sincerity or substance. For example: "His promises seemed like "mere electioneering" designed to sway public opinion."

What's a good alternative to "mere electioneering"?

Alternatives include "simple campaigning", "political maneuvering", or "campaign-driven actions", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "mere electioneering" a formal or informal phrase?

"Mere electioneering" is suitable for neutral to slightly formal contexts, often used in news reporting and analytical writing. It's generally acceptable but can sometimes carry a negative connotation.

What does it imply when someone describes something as "mere electioneering"?

It typically implies that the actions or statements in question are primarily motivated by a desire to win votes or gain political advantage, often suggesting a lack of genuine concern for the issues at hand.