The phrase "went to polls" is commonly used to describe the act of voting in an election. The correct spelling of "polls" is /pəʊlz/, with the "s" at the end representing the plural form of the noun "poll". The word "poll" originates from the Middle English "polle", meaning "head", and has evolved to have a variety of meanings over time. In the context of voting, "polls" typically refers to the location or station where voters cast their ballots.
The phrase "went to the polls" is an idiomatic expression referring to the action of individuals participating in a formal voting process during an election. The term "polls" specifically denotes the designated locations or voting stations where citizens cast their votes. When someone "went to the polls," they physically went to the appropriate place at a predetermined date and time to exercise their right to vote.
This phrase is commonly used in democratic societies to describe the act of engaging in the electoral process, typically for choosing political representatives, approving or rejecting specific legislation, or deciding on public policy matters. "Went to the polls" establishes a direct connection between individuals and their involvement in the decision-making process that governs their respective communities.
The act of going to the polls holds significant importance as it symbolizes citizens' civic duty and empowers them to express their preferences in a structured manner. It signifies active participation in democratic societies and serves as a measure of public opinion. The phrase often underscores the notion of democracy's fundamental principle of allowing citizens to have a say in shaping governments and policies.
Overall, "went to the polls" is a phrase used to describe the act of participating in an established voting system and emphasizes citizens' engagement in the democratic process by physically going to the designated locations to cast their votes.