bipartisanship

American  

[bahy-pahr-ti-zuhn-ship] / baɪˈpɑr tɪ zənˌʃɪp /

noun

1. an instance of members from traditionally opposed political parties agreeing to cooperate on an issue.

2. the quality of being supported by members of two different political parties.

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Explanation

Bipartisanship involves two political parties or factions working together to get things done. It can take a lot of skill to convince two parties that normally are rivals to work toward a common goal. The prefix bi- at the beginning of bipartisanship means that two things are involved. Drop the prefix and you have partisanship, very much the opposite in meaning. Partisanship involves supporting the views and policies of just one political party, no matter what. In contrast, bipartisanship involves compromise between political parties that often have opposing views. Bipartisanship is a relatively new word that reflects the growing importance of exploring ways to overcome strong political disagreements.

Example Sentences

The resounding vote in favour of the Epstein bill, 427-1, marks a rare moment of bipartisanship on Capitol Hill.

From BBC • Nov. 18, 2025

And in a rare glimmer of bipartisanship, coffee-loving Republicans and Democrats are jointly sponsoring a bill intended to protect coffee products.

From Barron's • Oct. 18, 2025

“I work hard not because bipartisanship is the end goal. ... That’s how you get things done.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 1, 2024

Just over a year ago, lawmakers displayed a rare show of bipartisanship when they grilled Shou Chew, TikTok’s chief executive, about the video app’s ties to China.

From New York Times • Apr. 24, 2024

We especially thank our colleagues on the Study Group, who have worked with us on these difficult issues in a spirit of generosity and bipartisanship.

From The Iraq Study Group Report by Iraq Study Group (U.S.)