noun · formal
decentralization
UK/ˌdiːsɛntrəlaɪˈzeɪʃ(ə)n/US/ˌdiːsentrəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/de·cen·tra·li·ZA·tion
the process of transferring power or responsibility from central government to local authorities
Examples
“Many argue that decentralization improves public services by making them more responsive.”
“Decentralization allowed local councils to set their own budget priorities.”
“The reform promoted decentralization of decision-making.”
Band 8 sentence
“Genuine decentralization requires not only transferring budgets, but also building local administrative capacity.”
Collocations
- decentralization of power
- promote decentralization
Word family
Common mistakes
decentralize the power to local level→decentralize power to the local level
many decentralization→a decentralization process / widespread decentralization
Say it for a higher band
5local control→6devolution→7+decentralization
Synonyms
devolution
localisation
Easily confused
devolution
“The devolution of powers gave the region control over education and transport.”
localisation
“The localisation of services helped tailor healthcare to community needs.”
Related words
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In Society & Government
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