Definition
The final election where all registered voters choose between the party nominees for an office. It's where the primary winner actually tries to win the whole thing.
Example Usage
After winning the primary, the candidate pivoted toward the center to appeal to swing voters in the general election.
Origin
From 'general' meaning 'of or affecting all,' as opposed to 'primary' (affecting members of a party only).
Fun Fact
General election turnout in the U.S. typically ranges from 50-65%, meaning most elected officials represent less than 30% of the total population.
Source: Electoral systems and voting procedure documentation
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “General Election” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
Try the Translator