general election

American  

noun

1. U.S. Politics.

   1. a regularly scheduled local, state, or national election in which voters elect officeholders.

   2. a state or national election, as opposed to a local election.

2. British. an election, which must be held at any time within five years of the last election, in which constituents elect members of the House of Commons.

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general election British  

noun

1. an election in which representatives are chosen in all constituencies of a state

2. a final election from which successful candidates are sent to a legislative body Compare primary

3. (in the US) a national or state election or (in Canada) a federal or provincial election in contrast to a local election

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Etymology

Origin of general election

An Americanism dating back to 1710–20

Example Sentences

House seat, failing in both a special election and her general election comeback attempt.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

Winnick was 83 years old and the West Midlands' longest serving MP when he lost his seat to Conservative Eddie Hughes during the 2017 general election.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

Denmark's Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is tipped to hold onto power after Tuesday's general election.

From Barron's • Mar. 24, 2026

In the Danish city of Kolding, voters are worried about rising prices, the welfare state and immigration ahead of the country's general election, reflecting nationwide concerns reinforced by worries about Greenland and global uncertainty.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

Senate race and was locked in what would become a tight race in the general election.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama