Referendum vs. Plebiscite: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on September 25, 2023
A general vote on a specific political question, often initiated by the government. A direct vote of the people on an issue, usually initiated by the government for legitimacy or public opinion.
Key Differences
A "Referendum" is generally a vote by the electorate on a particular issue or law, usually initiated by the government or legislature. "Plebiscite," on the other hand, is typically a direct vote by the citizens on an issue that often seeks to legitimize government actions.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 20, 2023
"Referendum" usually addresses a specific policy or legislative initiative, asking the public for approval or disapproval. In contrast, a "Plebiscite" often deals with fundamental or constitutional matters and may be used to gauge public opinion more broadly.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 20, 2023
In terms of grammar, both "Referendum" and "Plebiscite" function as nouns, with the plural forms "Referendums" or "Referenda" for Referendum, and "Plebiscites" for Plebiscite. The terminology can often vary based on jurisdiction or context.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 20, 2023
The scope of a "Referendum" is generally narrower and pertains to laws or specific governmental decisions. A "Plebiscite" usually addresses broader constitutional or national issues, such as sovereignty or territorial changes.
Janet White
Sep 20, 2023
While both "Referendum" and "Plebiscite" are tools of direct democracy, a Referendum is often binding, meaning the government is obliged to act based on the result. A Plebiscite, however, is often consultative, meaning it gauges public sentiment but may not be binding.
Sara Rehman
Sep 20, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Vote on a specific political question.
Direct vote on an issue for legitimacy.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 20, 2023
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Referendum and Plebiscite Definitions
Referendum
Vote on specific legislation.
The Referendum on healthcare was divisive.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
Plebiscite
Public vote on constitutional matters.
The Plebiscite decided the fate of the territory.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023
Referendum
Popular vote to confirm a political action.
The Brexit Referendum shocked many.
Janet White
Sep 18, 2023
Plebiscite
Consultative vote to gauge public opinion.
The Plebiscite was non-binding but influential.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023
Referendum
Government-initiated public vote.
The Referendum on tax reforms was overwhelmingly positive.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
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Plebiscite
Direct vote for political legitimacy.
The Plebiscite was held to legitimize the new regime.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
Referendum
Public opinion on a policy change.
The Referendum showed strong support for renewable energy.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
Plebiscite
Vote on territorial changes.
The Plebiscite determined the border dispute.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
Referendum
The submission of a proposed public measure or actual statute to a direct popular vote.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Plebiscite
Vote on national issues.
The Plebiscite was about joining a new federation.
Harlon Moss
Sep 18, 2023
Plebiscite
A direct vote in which the entire electorate is invited to accept or refuse a proposal
The new constitution was ratified in a plebiscite.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Referendum
A note from a diplomat to the diplomat's government requesting instructions.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Plebiscite
A vote in which a population exercises the right of national self-determination.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Referendum
(politics) A direct popular vote on a proposed law or constitutional amendment. The adposition on is usually used before the related subject of the vote.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Referendum
An action, choice, etc., which is perceived as passing judgment on another matter.
My father is taking my decision on whether to go to university as a referendum on his performance as a parent, and it's very stressful.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Plebiscite
A vote by universal male suffrage; especially, in France, a popular vote, as first sanctioned by the National Constitution of 1791.
Plebiscite we have lately taken, in popular use, from the French.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Referendum
A diplomatic agent's note asking for instructions from his government concerning a particular matter or point.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Plebiscite
A vote by the electorate determining public opinion on a question of national importance
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Referendum
The right to approve or reject by popular vote a meassure passed upon by a legislature.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Referendum
The principle or practice of referring measures passed upon by the legislative body to the body of voters, or electorate, for approval or rejection, as in the Swiss cantons (except Freiburg) and in various local governments in the United States, and also in the local option laws, etc.; also, the right to so approve or reject laws, or the vote by which this is done. Referendum is distinguished from the mandate, or instruction of representatives by the people, from direct government by the people, in which they initiate and make the laws by direct action without representation, and from a plebiscite, or popular vote taken on any measure proposed by a person or body having the initiative but not constituting a representative or constituent body.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Referendum
A legislative act is referred for final approval to a popular vote by the electorate
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Referendum
Decision on constitutional amendments.
The Referendum led to changes in gun control laws.
Sara Rehman
Sep 18, 2023
FAQs
Can a Referendum change laws?
Yes, a Referendum can lead to changes in laws or policies.
Janet White
Sep 20, 2023
What is a Plebiscite?
A Plebiscite is a direct vote by the people on an issue, often for legitimacy or public opinion.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 20, 2023
Are Referendums binding?
Referendums are often binding, meaning the government must act on the result.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 20, 2023
What is the scope of a Plebiscite?
A Plebiscite often deals with broader constitutional or national issues.
Janet White
Sep 20, 2023
Are Plebiscites binding?
Plebiscites are usually consultative and may not be binding.
Sara Rehman
Sep 20, 2023
What is a Referendum?
A Referendum is a general vote by the electorate on a specific political question.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 20, 2023
How are Referendums initiated?
Referendums are usually initiated by the government or legislative bodies.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 20, 2023
Can individuals initiate a Referendum?
In some jurisdictions, citizens can petition for a Referendum.
Janet White
Sep 20, 2023
What's the plural of Referendum?
The plural can be either "Referendums" or "Referenda."
Harlon Moss
Sep 20, 2023
How are Plebiscites initiated?
Plebiscites are often initiated by the government to gauge public opinion or legitimize actions.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 20, 2023
Are Referendums democratic?
Yes, both Referendums and Plebiscites are tools of direct democracy.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 20, 2023
Is a Plebiscite the same as a Referendum?
While similar, they differ in scope, initiation, and often in their binding nature.
Janet White
Sep 20, 2023
Can a Referendum be reversed?
Depending on the jurisdiction, some Referendums can be overturned by future Referendums.
Janet White
Sep 20, 2023
Can a Plebiscite be about anything?
A Plebiscite is usually about significant constitutional or national matters.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 20, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
