# decentralization

/dɪˌsɛntɹəɫɪˈzeɪʃən/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/decentralization
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the process of moving power or control away from a central place or person to smaller groups or local areas. It means that decisions are made closer to the people they affect.

For teachers: the process of shifting power, authority, or control from a centralised location to a more distributed network of local or regional entities. Often used in political, economic, or organizational contexts to describe the dispersion of decision-making.

## Examples

- The country is moving toward the decentralization of its power.
- The decentralization of the company's operations allowed local managers to make faster decisions without waiting for approval from the headquarters.
- The decentralization of the political system was intended to empower local communities, yet it often resulted in a lack of coordination and inconsistent policy implementation across different regions.

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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.