Faction

Definition

Faction refers to a small, organized, dissenting group within a larger one, especially in politics.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfækʃən/
• Respelling: FAK-shun (with "FAK" as in "fact" and "shun" as in "cushion")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfækʃən/
• Respelling: FAK-shun (with "FAK" as in "fact" and "shun" as in "cushion")

In both dialects, "faction" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FAK." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FAK-shun."

Etymology

The word "faction" comes from the Latin word factio, meaning "a doing, a making, a group of people acting together." The Latin term is derived from facere, meaning "to do" or "to make." The word entered Middle French as faction and then passed into English in the late 15th century, initially referring to a political group acting in opposition to a larger body.

Derivatives

• Factional (adjective)
• Factionalism (noun)
• Factionalize (verb)
• Factionalist (noun)
• Factionary (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Sect
• Clique
• Splinter group

Antonyms

• Whole
• Unity
• Entirety

Usage

"Faction" is frequently used in political, social, and organizational contexts to describe groups that have split off from a larger entity due to differing opinions, goals, or beliefs. It can also be used to describe the internal conflicts that arise from such divisions.

Related Terms

• Division: A disagreement or difference in opinion or way of thinking.
• Coalition: A group formed when two or more parties, factions, or individuals come together to achieve a common purpose.
• Partisanship: Prejudiced in favor of a particular cause or faction.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A Small, Organized Group: Refers to a minority group within a larger organization, often in opposition to the main body, particularly within political parties or movements.
  • Example: The political party split into several factions, each with its own agenda.

• Subgroup Within a Larger Group: Indicates a subgroup within a larger organization that pursues its own specific interests or goals, sometimes in conflict with the main group.
  • Example: The environmental faction of the organization pushed for stricter regulations.

• Internal Conflict: Describes the tension, disagreement, or conflict that occurs within a larger group due to the presence of factions.
  • Example: The board was torn apart by faction and rivalry, leading to ineffective decision-making.

• Political Dissent: In historical and political contexts, faction can refer to the opposition or rivalry between competing groups within a state or organization.
  • Example: The ancient republic was destabilized by constant faction and civil war.