Politics Vocabulary in English

Brexit, Elections, and Political English

Four years after the United Kingdom held a referendum on whether to leave the EU or not, four years of hearing the word Brexit, four years of constant reporting on the subject filling up news pages and programmes, it finally happened. 31st January 2020 was the final day for the UK as part of the EU after 46 years. 1st February marked the first day without the Union Jack outside the headquarters of the EU in Brussels.

Four years is a long time, although it feels just like yesterday that I went to the polling station to cast my vote. I walked in, took a ballot paper, made my choice and put it in the ballot box. In that time we’ve seen prime ministers stand down and new ones campaign and pledge to change things, and then be elected.

In other countries we have seen a comedian run for president and win the election by a landslide. We’ve seen rigged elections which have caused protests, riots and even looting. Countries pass laws which people are divided on, and there is tension between certain countries who can’t come to an agreement to suit both sides.

Politics can be a dangerous subject to talk about because everyone has their own views, so without going into some big text about who is right and who is wrong, I’d like to give you a list of useful words and phrases you can use to talk, listen, and understand the dirty world of politics.

Political Speaking Questions

Use these questions to practise your political English in conversation or in class.

• Do you know the name of the mayor of your town or city?
• What areas of public spending do you think need to be increased?
• What threats are there in the world of politics right now?
• Would you ever consider running for a role in parliament?
• Are there any laws you would pass if you were in charge of your country?
• Have you ever met a candidate during a campaign?

What Kind of Leader Would You Be?

Imagine you are president or prime minister. Read the situations and think about what you would do in each one. Great speaking practice for advanced learners.

a) Extradition vs. Relations

A fellow countryman committed a crime in another country, but fled back to your country. That country wants him extradited back to face the police and courts there. You have good relations with this country, and helping them out will boost your relations. What do you do?

b) Hosting the World Cup

There is the opportunity to host the football World Cup – one of the biggest events in the world – but to do this, you have to make a 10% reduction to the health budget for the next 12 months. It will bring a lot of money from tourism and boost your country’s profile. What do you do?

c) Corruption in Your Team

You catch your Sports Minister embezzling money from the budget. He has been doing it for the last 12 months. He begs you not to do anything drastic and offers to pay back all the money right away. He is your wife’s sister’s boyfriend. What do you do?