expropriation

1. The taking over of private property by a government, often without fair compensation but usually with a legal assertion that the government has a right to do so.

Example Sentences

But the government's expropriation plans have divided opinion in Villa Baviera, where fewer than 100 adults live.

From BBC

The lawyers said that all expropriations had "extensive procedural fairness requirements", including the owner's right to go to court if they were not happy.

From BBC

"Your land becomes worthless - the land expropriation has gone too far," he says.

From BBC

The expropriation law does allow the government to seize land without compensation, but only in certain circumstances.

From BBC

The dispute over the budget is the latest sign of the sharp differences between the two parties, with the DA also challenging in the courts three other pieces of legislation - including the land expropriation act.

From BBC

Related Words

• appropriation 
• confiscation