# 51 percent

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/51-percent
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A narrow or bare majority.

## Examples

- They only have 51 percent of the votes.
- The proposal passed with 51 percent, showing that the group is deeply divided on the issue.
- Although the board secured a 51 percent majority to approve the merger, the narrow margin suggests that future cooperation will be difficult.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.