Word
centrist
Phoneticscen·trist, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈsɛntɹɪst/
UK/sˈɛntɹɪst/
Countable noun Politics
Definition
n. a person whose political beliefs are in the middle, rather than being very liberal or very conservative. You use this to describe someone who prefers moderate changes and compromise.
n. a person who holds moderate political views and avoids extreme positions on either the left or the right of the political spectrum.
Examples
“The candidate is a centrist who hopes to appeal to all voters.”
“As a lifelong centrist, the senator often acts as a bridge between the two major parties during difficult budget negotiations.”
“Political analysts argue that while the party base is moving toward the fringes, the election will ultimately be decided by the centrist who prioritizes economic stability over ideological purity.”
Examples
simple
“The candidate is a centrist who hopes to appeal to all voters.”
contextual
“As a lifelong centrist, the senator often acts as a bridge between the two major parties during difficult budget negotiations.”
complex
“Political analysts argue that while the party base is moving toward the fringes, the election will ultimately be decided by the centrist who prioritizes economic stability over ideological purity.”
Usage
Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'centrist policies' or 'centrist candidate'.
Real-World Examples
“Sweden voted against more power for the far right – but are centrists listening?” “But the appointment of Tugendhat as shadow foreign secretary would bring a key voice from the party’s more centrist One Nation grouping into the fold, though Tugendhat is hawkish on foreign affairs.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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