What does "conservatives" mean?

1. (people with traditional views) people who like to keep things as they are and prefer traditional ideas over new ones. 2. (political party members) members or supporters of a political party that wants lower taxes and less government control.

How do you use "conservatives"?

Often capitalised when referring to a specific political party.

conservatives

US //kənˈsɝvətɪvz// UK //kənsˈɜːvətˌɪvz// con·ser·va·tives

1 people with traditional views (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

people who like to keep things as they are and prefer traditional ideas over new ones.

individuals who favour traditional values and are generally cautious about social or political change.

Example

Many conservatives in the town were against the plan to build a modern shopping mall.

Example

Social conservatives often argue that rapid changes to family law can have unintended consequences for the stability of the community.
- traditionalists
- right wingers
- liberals
- progressives
2 political party members (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Law

members or supporters of a political party that wants lower taxes and less government control.

members or supporters of a Conservative Party, typically representing center-right or right-wing ideologies.

Example

The Conservatives won the election and formed a new government.

Example

The Conservatives maintained a slim majority in parliament, allowing them to pass their proposed budget despite heavy opposition from the left.

Usage

Often capitalised when referring to a specific political party.
- tories
- labour
- democrats