noun · B1

By-Election

BY-i-lekshun/ˈbaɪ ɪˌlekʃn/

A by-election is a UK vote in one constituency between general elections (hyphen). General election is the nationwide poll. By is not the preposition “by” here. Turnout in the by-election was lower than in 2024.

Meaning

A UK election in one seat between general elections.

Examples

“Turnout in the by-election was lower than in 2024.”
“A by-election does not choose a whole new Parliament.”

Good to know

a by-election (hyphen). Contrast: a general election. Politics / Electoral Commission. Countable seats.

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