noun

checks and balances

cheks and BAL-un-siz

Checks and balances (noun) means a system in which the separate parts of a government or organisation each hold powers that limit the others, so that no single part can act without restraint. Example: “The courts are a vital part of the checks and balances on executive power.”

noun

A system in which the separate parts of a government or organisation each hold powers that limit the others, so that no single part can act without restraint.

"The courts are a vital part of the checks and balances on executive power."

"Investors want stronger checks and balances on how the chief executive spends."

"Without proper checks and balances, one department ends up approving its own work."

How to use checks and balances

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRules that let each part of a system stop the others from going too far.

When to use it

Treated as a plural noun and normally used without an article: checks and balances exist, not a checks and balances.

Memory tip

The phrase is fixed; do not reverse it to balances and checks.

Easily confused with

separation of powers → due process →

Common pairings

system of checks and balances proper checks and balances erode checks and balances checks and balances on power built-in checks and balances

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The courts are a vital part of the _____ on executive power.

Synonyms

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safeguards oversight controls separation of powers

Antonyms

unchecked power absolutism

Related words

attention management administration mistake error regulation monitoring governance

Rhymes for checks and balances

Frances finances Balances appurtenances

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between checks and balances and separation of powers?

Separation of powers divides government into distinct branches with distinct jobs. Checks and balances is the further step of giving each branch specific powers over the others, such as a veto or the ability to strike down a law, so the division is actually enforced.

Do checks and balances only apply to governments?

No. The phrase is used for any organisation where authority is deliberately split, such as a company separating the people who approve payments from the people who make them.

Is checks and balances singular or plural?

It takes a plural verb, as in the checks and balances were weakened. When it modifies another noun it becomes singular in form: a checks-and-balances system.

What is the meaning of checks and balances?

"checks and balances" (noun) means a system in which the separate parts of a government or organisation each hold powers that limit the others, so that no single part can act without restraint.

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attention management administration mistake error regulation monitoring governance