Is the EU Democratic? Does Your Vote Matter?
The European Union (EU) is a complex organization that tries to be democratic while uniting independent nations. It has a mix of direct and indirect democracy. While citizens directly vote for the European Parliament, other important EU bodies like the European Council and European Commission are influenced by national governments, which citizens vote for in their own countries. The European Parliament has gained more power over time, approving laws and budgets, making citizens' votes more influential. However, it cannot propose new laws on its own, which is a main point of debate regarding the EU's democratic nature. The EU is not as democratic as its member states, but it is democratic, and citizens' votes, both in EU and national elections, play a role in shaping its future and how power is distributed.
Key Vocabulary
The act of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats.
Examples:
- The criminal's scheme involved extortion, demanding payment to prevent the release of sensitive information.
- Businesses in the area were often victims of extortion, forced to pay protection money to a local gang.
- The detective investigated the case of extortion where a landlord was threatening tenants with eviction if they didn't pay extra fees.
A state of disorder due to absence or non-recognition of authority.
Examples:
- Without clear rules and enforcement, the playground quickly descended into anarchy.
- The sudden collapse of the government led to a period of intense anarchy in the capital.
- The team meeting turned into complete anarchy when everyone started talking over each other without a moderator.
To leave out or exclude (someone or something), either intentionally or forgetfully.
Examples:
- Please try not to omit any crucial details when you are writing the report.
- The recipe instructed to omit the nuts if there were any allergies among the guests.
- He decided to omit the less relevant sections of his speech to save time.
Relating to or characterized by anarchy; lacking order or control.
Examples:
- The protest became anarchic as participants ignored the organizers' instructions and broke ranks.
- The artist's style was described as anarchic, with no discernible pattern or structure in his work.
- The company's initial startup phase was somewhat anarchic, with everyone doing a bit of everything.
In a way that is deserving of ridicule or mockery; absurdly or unbelievably.
Examples:
- The price of the vintage car was ridiculously high, far exceeding its actual value.
- She found the plot of the movie to be ridiculously convoluted and difficult to follow.
- The comedian's outfit was ridiculously oversized, making the audience laugh uncontrollably.
To make legitimate; to justify or make lawful.
Examples:
- The new law officially legitimized the use of certain digital currencies for transactions.
- His long years of research legitimized his theories in the eyes of his peers.
- The company's recent acquisition of a smaller firm legitimized its position as a market leader.
The positive aspects or advantages of a situation.
Examples:
- One of the upsides of working from home is the flexibility it offers in scheduling.
- Despite the initial challenges, the project had many upsides, including significant cost savings.
- The new software had a few bugs, but its clear upsides were improved efficiency and user-friendliness.
A list of selected musical pieces or videos that can be played in a specific order.
Examples:
- She created a workout playlist with upbeat songs to keep her motivated during her runs.
- The DJ curated a special playlist for the party, featuring a mix of classic and contemporary hits.
- He spent hours organizing his favorite songs into a relaxing playlist for his commute.
A person who is blamed for the wrongdoings, mistakes, or faults of others, especially for reasons of expediency.
Examples:
- When the project failed, the manager looked for a scapegoat to take the blame.
- Historically, certain groups have been used as scapegoats during times of economic hardship.
- It's unfair to make one individual a scapegoat for the entire team's poor performance.
Able to be imposed or carried out by legal means.
Examples:
- The new contract terms are legally enforceable, meaning both parties must adhere to them.
- Without proper documentation, the agreement might not be enforceable in court.
- The city ordinance is not widely known, making it difficult to be fully enforceable.
To make or become less; to reduce in size, extent, or importance.
Examples:
- The heavy rain began to diminish after an hour, turning into a light drizzle.
- His confidence started to diminish as he encountered repeated failures.
- The company's profits continued to diminish due to increasing competition.
Chosen by vote to take a position of authority or responsibility.
Examples:
- The new mayor was elected by a significant majority of the city's residents.
- She was elected as the president of the student council for the upcoming academic year.
- The board members are elected every two years by the shareholders of the company.
Logical and consistent; forming a unified whole.
Examples:
- The professor's lecture was very coherent, making it easy for students to follow the complex topic.
- For a story to be compelling, it needs a coherent plot and well-developed characters.
- The team struggled to present a coherent strategy for the new marketing campaign.
The things that are regarded as more important than others and therefore deserve more attention.
Examples:
- After the merger, the company's priorities shifted towards global expansion.
- Setting clear priorities is essential for effective time management and achieving goals.
- His top priorities for the weekend were finishing the book and spending time with his family.
A solemn promise or pledge.
Examples:
- He made a vow to always be truthful, no matter the circumstances.
- The couple exchanged vows during their wedding ceremony, promising to support each other.
- The political candidate made a public vow to improve public transportation in the city.
In the last place; finally.
Examples:
- Firstly, we will review the budget; secondly, we will discuss the timeline; and lastly, we will assign tasks.
- The speaker concluded his presentation by, lastly, thanking the organizers for the invitation.
- The recipe calls for flour, eggs, sugar, and lastly, a pinch of salt.
Making great efforts to achieve or obtain something.
Examples:
- The athlete is constantly striving to improve her performance and break new records.
- The company is striving to become the leading provider of renewable energy solutions.
- He spent years striving for academic excellence, dedicating himself to his studies.
An advantage or profit gained from something.
Examples:
- The new policy will greatly benefit employees by offering more flexible working hours.
- Learning a second language can provide a significant benefit when traveling abroad.
- The community garden provides a dual benefit: fresh produce and a space for social interaction.
To cause (a law, rule, or obligation) to be observed or obeyed.
Examples:
- The police were called to enforce the new traffic regulations in the downtown area.
- It is challenging to enforce a dress code when employees work remotely.
- The school decided to strictly enforce its no-bullying policy to ensure student safety.
Having a commanding influence on; exercising control over.
Examples:
- The company's new product is quickly dominating the market, leaving competitors behind.
- His strong personality often leads to him dominating conversations at social gatherings.
- The towering skyscraper was dominating the city skyline, visible from miles away.