# devolution

/ˌdɛvəˈɫuʃən/ (US) · /dɪvəlˈuːʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/devolution
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

the moving of power or responsibility from a central government to a local or regional one. It allows local people to make more of their own decisions.

For teachers: the transfer or delegation of power to a lower level, especially by central government to local or regional administration. Refers to the decentralisation of authority within a political system.

## Examples

- The country voted for the devolution of power to regional parliaments.
- Political analysts argue that devolution has allowed the regional government to tailor its healthcare policies to the specific needs of its citizens.
- The debate over constitutional devolution often centers on whether the central authority retains enough power to maintain national unity while granting sufficient autonomy to local assemblies.

## Usage notes

- Often used in political and legal contexts; frequently followed by the preposition 'of' and 'to'.

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