drop the writ
To call a federal or provincial election.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The prime minister will drop the writ tomorrow.”
“The government decides to drop the writ this morning.”
“Does the leader drop the writ before the holiday?”
“Political analysts expect the government to drop the writ soon, triggering a month of intense campaigning.”
“The premier plans to drop the writ early to take advantage of his party's high popularity in the recent polls.”
“Local businesses often see an increase in advertising revenue as soon as the leaders drop the writ for a new election.”
“After the scandal broke, the opposition demanded that the prime minister drop the writ and let the people vote.”
“Following months of speculation regarding the administration's stability, the governor finally decided to drop the writ, officially commencing the race for the next legislative term.”
The phrase is a compression of draw up the writ. It denotes the writ of election issued by the Governor to initiate a parliamentary election, an administrative necessity that serves as the official catalyst for the voting process.
- 01
a short drop and a sudden stop
A fall to one's death by hanging.
- 02
don't drop the soap
Used as a mockery to someone who is about to be or should be confined in prison.
- 03
drop a bollock
To make a mistake.
- 04
drop a bomb
Alternative form of drop a bombshell.
- 05
drop a bombshell
To announce surprising or alarming information suddenly and without warning.
- 06
drop a brick
To commit a faux pas, especially in speech, such as by tactlessly speaking of a subject that should not be mentioned.
- 07
drop a dime
To make a telephone call.
- 08
drop a hint
To reveal a clue or hint about something.
Last updated August 10, 2026