vote of confidence

Also con·fi·dence vote

[voht uhv kon-fi-duhns]

noun

1. 1. (in a legislative or similar body) a formal vote, especially after the introduction of a crucial and controversial piece of policy, to determine whether the majority of members are still prepared to allow the party or person in power to continue governing.

      The Opposition called for a vote of confidence in parliament yesterday.

      With the Tory Party deeply divided, the PM lost a vote of confidence on his Irish policy and had to resign.

   2. a favorable outcome of such a vote for the person or party in power.

      The Knesset gave a slim vote of confidence to the eight-party coalition government.

2. any formal vote in favor of a person or party already in power, a policy or program, etc..

   Despite record low turnout, he called the election result a vote of confidence for his party.

3. any expression of support.

   Your subscription to our magazine is a vote of confidence for our advocacy work.

Word History and Origins

Origin of vote of confidence¹

First recorded in 1730–40

Example Sentences

French opposition parties have said they will not back Prime Minister François Bayrou after he called a vote of confidence on 8 September on plans for deep budget cuts.

From BBC

To have attracted a blue-chip brand such as Red Bull, while the rebel R360 start-up competition also hunts investment, is a resounding vote of confidence.

From BBC

Witherspoon saw it as a vote of confidence.

From Los Angeles Times

CBS News’ “60 Minutes” received a vote of confidence with the naming of Tanya Simon, a respected veteran insider to take over as executive producer.

From Los Angeles Times

But – at least for now – the 7,000 Scottish Green members seem to have given a vote of confidence to those who have been running the show.

From BBC