Word
interest group
Definition
compound. a group of people who work together to influence the government or public opinion about a specific topic.
compound. a formal or informal association of individuals or organizations that attempts to influence public policy in its favour. Often used in political science to describe lobbying bodies or advocacy organizations.
Examples
“The environmental interest group met with the mayor.”
“Several powerful interest groups are lobbying the government to change the new tax laws before they take effect.”
“The proliferation of competing interest groups has made it increasingly difficult for legislators to reach a consensus on healthcare reform.”
Examples
simple
“The environmental interest group met with the mayor.”
contextual
“Several powerful interest groups are lobbying the government to change the new tax laws before they take effect.”
complex
“The proliferation of competing interest groups has made it increasingly difficult for legislators to reach a consensus on healthcare reform.”
Usage
often used with the verbs 'lobby', 'represent', or 'influence'.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'political party'; while a party seeks to win elections and run the government, an interest group only seeks to influence specific policies.
Related words
- 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
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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