Definition of Government
Quick Meaning of Government
The officials and leaders who make decisions and laws for a country or city.
Detailed Definition of Government
The system or group of people that runs a country or state.
How to Pronounce Government
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Three syllables with schwa sounds: GUV-ern-ment. The 'r' is pronounced, and the stress is on the first syllable.
Watch out: Learners often drop the 'r' and say 'GUV-ment' (2 syllables). The correct pronunciation has 3 syllables with 'r': GUV-ern-ment.
Origin and Etymology of Government
From Old French 'governement', from Latin 'gubernare' meaning to steer or direct.
How to Use Government in a Sentence
Each example shows “government” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The government passed a new law about education.”
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“Many people work for the government.”
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“The local government decided to build a new park.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Government
Common Synonyms for Government
Smart Synonyms for Government — When to Use Each
- administration
- emphasizes the temporary group of leaders in power
- state
- refers to the broader political system and territory,
- leadership
- focuses on the people directing the system, less
Common Collocations with Government
These phrases pair with “government” in everyday English:
- central government
- local government
- federal government
- government officials
- government policy
Common Mistakes When Using Government
Even fluent speakers slip up with “government”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The government are making new laws.
- ✓ Correct: The government is making new laws.
- Why: In formal British English, 'government' is a collective noun and takes a singular verb. In informal speech, plural is sometimes acceptable, but singular is more standard.
- ✗ Wrong: Many governments is corrupt.
- ✓ Correct: Many governments are corrupt.
- Why: When 'governments' is plural, use the plural verb 'are', not singular 'is'.
Words Confused With Government
- Government vs Country: A country is a place; government is the system of leaders and institutions Compare →
Other Forms of Government
- Noun: government
- Verb: govern
- Adjective: governmental
Frequently Asked Questions About Government
What is the meaning of "Government"?
The officials and leaders who make decisions and laws for a country or city.
How do you pronounce "Government"?
The IPA is /ˈɡʌvərnmənt/. Three syllables with schwa sounds: GUV-ern-ment. The 'r' is pronounced, and the stress is on the first syllable.
What part of speech is "Government"?
"Government" is a noun at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Government"?
Common synonyms include administration, state, regime.
How do you use "Government" in a sentence?
For example: "The government passed a new law about education."