vote of confidence
Americannoun
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(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.
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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.
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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.
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any expression of support.
Your subscription to our magazine is a vote of confidence for our advocacy work.
Etymology
Origin of vote of confidence
First recorded in 1730–40
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Still, putting together a government that can pass a vote of confidence will be challenging.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 7, 2026
The latest vote of confidence in geothermal energy came from Morgan Stanley analysts, who in a note Tuesday highlighted the industry’s potential and the promising use of shale tools.
From MarketWatch ● Nov. 3, 2026
Though “Mac” made little impact commercially, the Cannes prize was a welcome vote of confidence for Turturro as a filmmaker — and came with roughly $65,000 toward his next film.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 21, 2026
A spaceport spokesperson said the funding was a "hugely significant" vote of confidence and would unlock a further £30m of private investment.
From BBC ● Sep. 8, 2026
After an evident moment of confusion, Dad replied, “Thank you for your vote of confidence, Reverend Lavender.”
From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
