ENGLISH
REFERENCE

drop the writ

idiom
Meaning

To call a federal or provincial election.


Origin

disputed origin

Compression of draw up the writ. "Writ" means a writ of election issued by the Governor that initiates a parliamentary election.

Examples
SIMPLE

The prime minister will drop the writ tomorrow.

CONTEXTUAL

Political analysts expect the government to drop the writ soon, triggering a month of intense campaigning.

COMPLEX

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.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a short drop and a sudden stop

    A fall to one's death by hanging.

  2. 02

    don't drop the soap

    Used as a mockery to someone who is about to be or should be confined in prison.

  3. 03

    drop a bollock

    To make a mistake.

  4. 04

    drop a bomb

    Alternative form of drop a bombshell.

  5. 05

    drop a bombshell

    To announce surprising or alarming information suddenly and without warning.

  6. 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.

  7. 07

    drop a dime

    To make a telephone call.

  8. 08

    drop a hint

    To reveal a clue or hint about something.

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