Word
pressure group
Countable noun
Definition
n. a group of people who try to influence the government or big companies to change a law or a policy. They usually focus on one specific issue, like the environment or animal rights.
n. an organised association that seeks to influence public policy or government legislation on behalf of a specific cause or interest. Often operates through lobbying, public demonstrations, or media campaigns rather than seeking elected office.
Examples
“An environmental pressure group is protesting against the new airport.”
“The local pressure group successfully petitioned the council to stop the building of a motorway through the woods.”
“Scholars distinguish between 'insider' pressure groups that consult directly with civil servants and 'outsider' groups that must rely on public agitation to gain political attention.”
Examples
simple
“An environmental pressure group is protesting against the new airport.”
contextual
“The local pressure group successfully petitioned the council to stop the building of a motorway through the woods.”
complex
“Scholars distinguish between 'insider' pressure groups that consult directly with civil servants and 'outsider' groups that must rely on public agitation to gain political attention.”
Usage
Often followed by the preposition 'for' or 'against' a particular policy.
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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