noun
separation of powers
sep-ə-RAY-shən əv POW-erz
Separation of powers (noun) means 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. Example: “The separation of powers stops the president from writing the laws he enforces.”
noun
1
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.
"The separation of powers stops the president from writing the laws he enforces."
"Critics said the emergency decree rode roughshod over the separation of powers."
How to use separation of powers
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSplitting government into parts so no single part holds all the power.
When to use it
Formal; standard in law, politics and civics teaching.
Memory tip
It takes a singular verb: the separation of powers is a founding principle.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
violate the separation of powers
strict separation of powers
the doctrine of the separation of powers
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like separation of powers.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ stops the president from writing the laws he enforces.
Synonyms
View more →
division of powers
trias politica
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for separation of powers
See all rhymes for separation of powers →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.
What is the meaning of separation of powers?
"separation of powers" (noun) means 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.
