The word "supermajority" refers to a majority greater than 50%. Its spelling can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /suːpərˈmædʒərɪti/. The first syllable starts with the "s" sound followed by the long "u" sound. The second syllable consists of the "p" sound, followed by the "er" sound and the stress on the second syllable. The final syllable starts with the "m" sound followed by the "æ" sound, the "dʒ" sound, and the "r" sound before ending with the unstressed "i" sound.
A supermajority refers to a specific threshold or requirement of voting or agreement that surpasses a simple majority. It is a numerical percentage or fraction of votes, often higher than 50%, that must be obtained to pass a decision or proposal. This concept is predominantly used in political and legal contexts.
To achieve a supermajority, a party or group must secure a greater proportion of votes, typically between two-thirds (66.67%) and three-fourths (75%). This elevated majority is designed to ensure broad consensus and strengthen the legitimacy and stability of an outcome.
Supermajority requirements are commonly seen in constitutional amendments, the election or appointment of particular officeholders, important policy decisions, or impeachment processes. They are used as mechanisms to prevent hasty or arbitrary actions and protect against potential abuses of power. Requiring a supermajority promotes deliberation, compromise, and bipartisanship, as it becomes essential to garner support beyond the simple majority to achieve the desired outcome. Furthermore, it serves as a safeguard against minority factions disproportionately influencing decisions.
The specific threshold for a supermajority can vary depending on the governing body, its rules, and the nature of the issue being addressed. The intention behind a supermajority is to establish a broader consensus and elevate the importance and legitimacy of the outcome by requiring a higher level of agreement.
The word "supermajority" is derived from the prefix "super-" meaning "above" or "beyond" and the noun "majority", which refers to the greater part or number. The term is often used in the context of votes or decisions requiring a greater than normal majority, usually to make a decision more binding or secure.