Vote vs. Ballot: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
A vote is an individual's choice or decision in an election or referendum, while a ballot is the means or system used to record votes, often a piece of paper or electronic system.
Key Differences
A vote is an expression of preference or opinion in making a decision, particularly in democratic processes like elections. It reflects an individual's choice among options. A ballot, on the other hand, is the medium through which this vote is cast, often a paper or electronic format that lists the choices.
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Nov 14, 2023
Votes are the individual decisions or selections made by voters, representing their voices in a democratic process. Each vote contributes to the final outcome of an election or decision. Ballots, however, are the tools used for the voting process, ensuring confidentiality and organization in collecting votes.
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Nov 14, 2023
In democratic elections, a vote is the fundamental right of citizens, signifying their participation in choosing leaders or deciding on issues. The ballot is the mechanism that ensures the integrity and secrecy of the voting process, whether it's a physical paper or an electronic system.
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Nov 14, 2023
Votes are counted to determine the result of an election or referendum, with each vote carrying equal weight in the decision-making process. Ballots, designed to facilitate easy and accurate counting, play a crucial role in ensuring the transparency and fairness of the electoral process.
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Nov 14, 2023
The act of voting is a civic duty and a cornerstone of democratic societies, embodying the principle of one person, one vote. Ballots are the practical aspect of this process, providing a structured and secure method for collecting and counting votes.
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Nov 14, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
An individual's choice or decision in an election
The means or system used to record votes
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Representation
Symbolizes a person's opinion or preference
A physical or electronic method of casting votes
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Function
To express a decision or preference
To collect and tally votes securely
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Form
Conceptual (the act of choosing)
Physical or digital (paper, electronic system)
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Role in Democracy
Fundamental right and civic duty
Ensures integrity and confidentiality of voting
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Vote and Ballot Definitions
Vote
A vote is a formal expression of opinion in a decision-making process.
Each citizen's vote contributes to the outcome of the election.
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Nov 14, 2023
Ballot
A ballot is the document or interface used to record choices in an election.
The electronic ballot system was introduced to streamline the voting process.
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Nov 14, 2023
Vote
A vote is a means of expressing preference in a collective decision.
His vote was crucial in the final tally of the board's decision.
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Ballot
Ballot also represents the collective set of options available to voters in an election.
The ballot included four candidates for the mayoral race.
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Nov 14, 2023
Vote
A formal expression of preference for a candidate for office or for a proposed resolution of an issue
Let's decide the matter by vote.
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Oct 19, 2023
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Ballot
Ballot implies the tool used to ensure secrecy and order in the voting process.
The design of the ballot made it easy for voters to understand their choices.
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Ballot
A sheet of paper or a card used to cast or register a vote, especially a secret one.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
A means by which such a preference is made known, such as a raised hand or a marked ballot
Looked around the room and counted the votes in favor.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
The number of votes cast in an election or to resolve an issue
A heavy vote in favor of the bill.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
A group of voters alike in some way
The African American vote.
The rural vote.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
The result of an election or referendum
The measure was defeated in a resounding negative vote.
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Vote
The right to participate as a voter; suffrage
When the nation gave the vote to women.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
To express one's preference for a candidate or for a proposed resolution of an issue; cast a vote
Voting against the measure.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
To express a choice or an opinion
The children voted unanimously by jumping up and down.
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Vote
To express one's preference for by vote
Voted the straight Republican ticket.
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Oct 19, 2023
Ballot
Originally, a small ball placed in a container to cast a vote; now, by extension, a piece of paper or card used for this purpose, or some other means used to signify a vote.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
To decide the disposition of by vote, as by electing or defeating
Vote in a new mayor.
Voted out their representative.
Vote down the amendment.
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Vote
To bring into existence or make available by vote
Vote new funds for a program.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
(Informal) To state as a preference or opinion
I vote we eat out tonight.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
A formalized choice on legally relevant measures such as employment or appointment to office or a proceeding about a legal dispute.
The city council decided the matter should go to public vote.
Parliament will hold a vote of confidence regarding the minister.
One occasion indicative votes were used was in 2003 when MPs were presented with seven different options on how to reform the House of Lords.
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Oct 19, 2023
Ballot
Originally, a ball used for secret voting. Hence: Any printed or written ticket used in voting.
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Vote
An act or instance of participating in such a choice, e.g., by submitting a ballot
The Supreme Court upheld the principle of one person, one vote.
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Ballot
The act of secret voting, whether by balls, written or printed ballots or tickets, or by use of a voting machine; the system of voting secretly.
The insufficiency of the ballot.
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Ballot
The whole number of votes cast at an election, or in a given territory or electoral district.
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Vote
(obsolete) any judgment of intellect leading to a formal opinion, a point of view
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Vote
Any judgment of intellect leading not only to a formal opinion but also to a particular choice in a legally relevant measure, a point of view as published
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Ballot
To vote for or in opposition to.
None of the competitors arriving to a sufficient number of balls, they fell to ballot some others.
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Vote
(intransitive) to cast a vote; to assert a formalized choice in an election
Did you vote last month?
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Vote
(transitive) to choose or grant by means of a vote, or by general consent
The depository may vote shares on behalf of investors who have not submitted instruction to the bank.
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Oct 19, 2023
Ballot
A choice that is made by voting;
There were only 17 votes in favor of the motion
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Vote
A wish, choice, or opinion, of a person or a body of persons, expressed in some received and authorized way; the expression of a wish, desire, will, preference, or choice, in regard to any measure proposed, in which the person voting has an interest in common with others, either in electing a person to office, or in passing laws, rules, regulations, etc.; suffrage.
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Oct 19, 2023
Ballot
A ballot is a system or method for voters to cast their votes, typically a paper or electronic format.
The ballots were counted manually after the polls closed.
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Vote
That by means of which will or preference is expressed in elections, or in deciding propositions; voice; a ballot; a ticket; as, a written vote.
The freeman casting with unpurchased handThe vote that shakes the turrets of the land.
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Ballot
Ballot refers to the physical or digital medium used in voting.
She marked her choices on the paper ballot.
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Vote
Expression of judgment or will by a majority; legal decision by some expression of the minds of a number; as, the vote was unanimous; a vote of confidence.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
To express or signify the mind, will, or preference, either viva voce, or by ballot, or by other authorized means, as in electing persons to office, in passing laws, regulations, etc., or in deciding on any proposition in which one has an interest with others.
The vote for a duelist is to assist in the prostration of justice, and, indirectly, to encourage the crime.
To vote on large principles, to vote honestly, requires a great amount of information.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
To enact, establish, grant, determine, etc., by a formal vote; as, the legislature voted the resolution.
Parliament voted them one hundred thousand pounds.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
To declare by general opinion or common consent, as if by a vote; as, he was voted a bore.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
A choice that is made by voting;
There were only 17 votes in favor of the motion
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Vote
The opinion of a group as determined by voting;
They put the question to a vote
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Vote
A legal right guaranteed by the 15th amendment to the US constitution; guaranteed to women by the 19th amendment;
American women got the vote in 1920
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Vote
A body of voters who have the same interests;
He failed to get the Black vote
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Vote
Express one's preference for a candidate or for a measure or resolution; cast a vote;
He voted for the motion
None of the Democrats voted last night
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Oct 19, 2023
Vote
Express a choice or opinion;
I vote that we all go home
She voted for going to the Chinese restaurant
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Vote
Bring into existence or make available by vote;
They voted aid for the underdeveloped countries in Asia
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Vote
A vote is an individual's choice in an election or referendum.
She cast her vote for the candidate who aligned with her views.
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Nov 14, 2023
Vote
Vote refers to the act of choosing between options in a democratic process.
The vote on the new policy will take place next week.
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Vote
Vote symbolizes the power of an individual's voice in governance.
The right to vote is an essential aspect of democratic participation.
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Nov 14, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is a vote?
A vote is an individual's expressed choice in an election or decision-making process.
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What forms can a ballot take?
Ballots can be paper-based or electronic, depending on the voting system used.
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Can anyone cast a vote?
Eligibility to vote depends on various factors like age, citizenship, and voter registration in a specific jurisdiction.
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What is a ballot?
A ballot is the means, such as a paper or electronic system, through which votes are cast and recorded.
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How is the secrecy of a vote maintained?
The secrecy of a vote is maintained through confidential ballots and private voting booths.
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How is a vote cast?
A vote is cast by making a selection on a ballot in an election or referendum.
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How are votes counted?
Votes are counted manually or electronically, depending on the ballot system.
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What happens if there's a tie in votes?
In the event of a tie, different jurisdictions have various methods, like a runoff election or a deciding vote by a specific authority.
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What is the purpose of a ballot?
The purpose of a ballot is to provide a secure and organized method for voters to cast their votes.
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Is a ballot anonymous?
Yes, ballots are designed to be anonymous to protect voter privacy.
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What is the role of a vote in a democracy?
A vote is a fundamental component of democracy, allowing citizens to participate in governance and decision-making.
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Are all votes equal?
In democratic systems, each vote typically has equal weight in determining the outcome of an election.
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Can a ballot be used more than once?
Each ballot is typically used only once to maintain the integrity of the voting process.
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Can a vote be cast online?
In some jurisdictions, electronic or online voting is possible, but it varies by location and specific election rules.
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How is voter fraud prevented in voting and balloting?
Voter fraud is prevented through various measures like voter identification, secure ballot handling, and scrutineering during the counting process.
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Are ballots the same in every election?
Ballot formats can vary depending on the type of election and the jurisdiction.
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What is an absentee ballot?
An absentee ballot allows a voter to cast their vote remotely, usually by mail, if they cannot be physically present at the voting location.
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Can a vote be changed after it's cast?
Once a vote is cast, especially in a secret ballot, it generally cannot be changed.
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How are ballots distributed?
Ballots are distributed at polling stations or by mail for absentee voting.
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What is a spoiled ballot?
A spoiled ballot is one that is marked incorrectly and cannot be counted.
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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