Politically Meaning
Politically Definition & Usage
In a way that is concerned with or influenced by politics, government, or political principles.
Examples
- "The decision was made politically, as it aimed to appease both sides of the debate."
- "Politically speaking, the president's actions were controversial, even though they were supported by his party."
- "The city council made the politically motivated decision to cut taxes before the upcoming elections."
- "He spoke politically, carefully choosing words to avoid offending any of his supporters."
- "The two leaders met to discuss the politically sensitive issue of border security."
In a way that is calculated to maintain balance, avoid controversy, or serve a political purpose.
Examples
- "She answered the question politically, saying only what was necessary to maintain her position."
- "The ambassador spoke politically, avoiding any direct comment on the host country's internal matters."
- "They behaved politically, ensuring they didn’t offend any of the powerful stakeholders."
- "Politically correct language is often used to avoid giving offense, though some people criticize it for being overly cautious."
- "The committee chair responded politically, ensuring that no one would accuse him of bias."
Cultural Context
The adverb 'politically' stems from the adjective 'political,' which originally referred to affairs related to city governance and citizenship in ancient Greece. Over time, the word evolved to refer to the broader field of government and political systems. In modern usage, 'politically' is most commonly used to describe actions or decisions shaped by or intended to influence the political landscape. It often carries a connotation of strategic decision-making, especially in terms of maintaining power, influence, or avoiding controversy.
The Politician's Dilemma
Story
The Politician's Dilemma
In a small, bustling city on the brink of an election, the local council was divided over a major decision that could shift the political balance. The issue at hand was a new development project that promised to bring jobs but would also disrupt the local community's way of life. Mayor Jenna Collins found herself at the heart of the debate, knowing that any decision she made could either solidify her re-election or alienate a large portion of her voters. As the council meeting began, Jenna listened carefully to each argument. On one side, developers spoke passionately about the economic benefits of the project, while on the other, community activists warned of the long-term damage it would cause. The debate grew heated, with some council members speaking aggressively, while others remained calm, trying to keep the peace. Jenna, politically astute as always, knew that her next words would carry weight. 'We must look at this not just from a business perspective but from the broader social impact,' Jenna said, speaking politically. 'This project will bring new jobs, but we need to ensure that the community remains strong and intact.' Her words were carefully chosen, calculated to address both sides without offending anyone. While her statement didn’t solve the issue immediately, it shifted the tone of the conversation, allowing for more diplomatic solutions to emerge. Later, after the meeting, Jenna sat in her office reflecting on the vote that had taken place. She knew her decision, while politically motivated to secure votes, was also the best choice for the city in the long run. She had managed to avoid taking an overtly controversial stance, speaking politically rather than taking sides. Her approach was tactful, ensuring that she wouldn’t lose the support of either group as the election loomed. As the day drew to a close, Jenna couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief. The project would go ahead, but with stricter regulations and more community input—an outcome that was politically palatable for everyone involved. She had navigated the treacherous waters of local politics with grace, understanding that in her world, decisions were rarely black or white; they were almost always shades of gray.
Related Words
