separation of powers
2 synonyms and 3 antonyms for separation of powers, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The constitutional principle that the legislative, executive and judicial functions of government should be held by separate bodies, so that no one branch can control the state on its own.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
division of powers
trias politica
Antonyms
How to use separation of powers
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
violate the separation of powers
strict separation of powers
the doctrine of the separation of powers
Formal; standard in law, politics and civics teaching.
Frequently asked questions
What are the three branches under the separation of powers?
The legislature makes the law, the executive carries it out and administers government, and the judiciary interprets the law and settles disputes about it. In the United States these are Congress, the presidency and the federal courts.
What is the difference between separation of powers and checks and balances?
Separation of powers divides the functions between branches; checks and balances give each branch specific tools to restrain the others, such as the presidential veto, congressional impeachment and judicial review. The first sets the boundaries and the second polices them.
Does the United Kingdom have a separation of powers?
Only partially. The executive is drawn from and sits inside Parliament, which is often called a fusion of powers. The judiciary was clearly separated in 2009, when the Supreme Court took over the judicial role of the House of Lords.
