Unvote

To formally retract or reverse a previously cast vote; to invalidate or cancel a ballot. This action implies a change of mind or a recognition that the original vote was cast incorrectly, based on updated information, or due to coercion. It is a hypothetical concept, since voting systems in democracies generally do not allow for the retroactive rescinding of a cast ballot. The term is usually used figuratively to express a change in opinion, a rejection of a previous stance, or an attempt to disavow a prior endorsement. It can also indicate a protest against the electoral process itself, perhaps as a result of a controversial policy or election outcome. It is a hypothetical action for actual elections.

Unvote meaning with examples

• Following the revelation of the politician's unethical dealings, many citizens wished they could unvote for him, expressing regret over their initial decision. Their desire to 'unvote' highlighted a lack of faith in the candidate’s integrity. Even though this action isn't physically possible, the concept demonstrated deep dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs.
• After reading the detailed report on the environmental impact of the proposed project, the city council members publicly considered how they could 'unvote' in a hypothetical setting for their initial approval. It showed remorse for a potentially detrimental decision, which lead to reevaluation of the project's proposal to ensure ecological care.
• Disgusted by the new law that restricted freedom of speech, citizens symbolically engaged in acts of 'unvoting', expressing their dissent by publicly criticizing the government and refusing to support the ruling party's policies. They took alternative actions to protest against the elected officials, in order to make a change.
• Social media users, upset with the direction of a popular streaming service after a controversial update, expressed their desire to 'unvote' for the platform by canceling their subscriptions and boycotting their content. This showed their dissatisfaction with the current services, causing possible economic strain for the company.
• When a new law was revealed, the community had to 'unvote' for a prior decision as new facts were revealed.
• After the final decision, the community had to 'unvote' for their prior decision as facts changed.
• The members had to 'unvote' after the original outcome.
• After new data was presented, the members had to 'unvote' for the original decision.