simple majority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simple majority" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts involving voting or decision-making, where more than half of the votes cast are needed to win or decide an outcome. Example: "The proposal was approved by a simple majority of the members present at the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A simple majority?

Harvard Business Review

A simple majority of MPs is needed.

The Economist

This requires only a simple majority vote.

The Economist

A simple majority is needed.

The New York Times

We use a simple majority vote.

Princeton University

A simple majority gets that job done.

The New York Times

A simple majority is required to rule.

The New York Times

Supporters say a simple majority will suffice.

The New York Times

A simple majority was needed for election.

The New York Times

This one just needs a simple majority.

The Guardian

A simple majority of those casting votes is required.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a decision-making process, clarify if a "simple majority" is sufficient or if a supermajority (e.g. two-thirds vote) is required.

Common error

Avoid using "simple majority" when a supermajority (like two-thirds or three-quarters) is actually needed. Always check the specific rules governing the vote or decision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simple majority" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates its correct and usable status in English. It describes the type of majority needed for a vote or decision to pass.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

27%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "simple majority" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe a decision-making process where more than half of the votes cast are required for a proposal or candidate to win. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable in English. Analysis of usage patterns shows it is frequently found in "News & Media" and "Academia" contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. It's essential to differentiate "simple majority" from supermajorities, which require a higher percentage of votes. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the specific voting rules and whether a "simple majority" is sufficient or if a supermajority is necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more than half

Focuses on exceeding the 50% threshold, omitting the formal voting context.

majority vote

Slightly broader; doesn't specify the 'simple' aspect but generally implies it.

fifty-percent plus one

More explicit and technical, highlighting the precise number needed.

clear majority

Emphasizes the decisiveness of the majority, not just the bare minimum.

plurality of votes

Can refer to the largest block of votes, but not necessarily more than half.

preponderance of votes

More formal and emphatic; suggests a significant majority.

the greater part

More general term, suitable when not referring to a specific voting scenario.

winning vote

Focuses on the outcome of the vote rather than the specific margin.

the lion's share

Informal; implies a very large majority, almost all.

controlling interest

Applicable in contexts where the majority holds decision-making power.

FAQs

What does "simple majority" mean in voting?

A "simple majority" means that more than half of the votes cast are in favor of a particular proposal or candidate. It's the most common threshold for decisions in many organizations and legislative bodies.

How does a "simple majority" differ from a supermajority?

A "simple majority" requires just over 50% of the votes, while a supermajority, such as a two-thirds or three-quarters vote, requires a significantly higher percentage. Supermajorities are often used for important or controversial decisions.

When is a "simple majority" needed in the US Senate?

In the US Senate, a "simple majority" is often sufficient for procedural votes, confirmation of appointments, and passage of most legislation. However, certain actions, like ending a filibuster, require a supermajority of 60 votes.

Are there synonyms for "simple majority"?

While there aren't direct synonyms, you can use alternatives like "more than half" or "majority vote", depending on the context. However, "simple majority" is the most precise and widely understood term.