# interest group

CEFR B2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/interest-group
Updated: 2026-08-05

## Definition

a group of people who work together to influence the government or public opinion about a specific topic.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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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.