Understanding the Word: Polls
Every few years, you will hear people talking about going to the polls. Whether it is a local election or a national race, this word is central to the language of democracy. While it might sound like a simple term, it carries a rich history and is used in a few specific ways that are important to understand. In this article, we will break down exactly what polls means, how to use it correctly, and where the word actually came from.
Meanings and Origins
At its core, the noun polls refers to the place where citizens go to cast their ballots on Election Day. If you live in a neighborhood, your local school or community center might be designated as your polls. However, the word is also used more broadly to describe the entire process of voting or the period during which voting occurs.
The history of the word is quite fascinating. In the 1620s, the word poll simply meant "head." When officials wanted to calculate how many people were present at an event, they would "count heads." Over time, this evolved into the idea of "counting votes." Eventually, the location where this counting took place became known as the polls.
How to Use "Polls" in a Sentence
Because polls is almost always used in the plural form when referring to voting, it is important to treat it as a plural noun in your sentences. Here are some natural ways to use the word:
- "I made sure to get to the polls early so I could beat the long lines."
- "The polls will remain open until 8:00 PM tonight for anyone who still needs to cast their ballot."
- "Citizens lined up outside the polls long before the doors officially opened."
- "She felt a sense of pride as she walked out of the polls with her 'I Voted' sticker."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most frequent mistake learners make is using the word in the singular form when referring to a voting location. You should avoid saying "I am going to the poll." In English, we almost exclusively use the plural polls for the physical location.
Another point of confusion is the difference between "polls" and "surveys." While public opinion polls (surveys asking people how they intend to vote) and the voting polls share the same root word, they are different things. Don't confuse the act of being surveyed by a journalist with the act of walking into a building to cast your official vote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it ever correct to say "poll" instead of "polls"?
Yes, but usually only when you are talking about a single survey or an opinion study. For example, "The latest poll shows the candidates are tied." However, when talking about the physical place where you go to vote, always use the plural polls.
Do I go "in" the polls or "to" the polls?
We almost always use the preposition to. We go to the polls. You might be at the polls, but you are heading to them.
Can "polls" be a verb?
Yes. You can poll a group of people, which means to ask them their opinions. However, this is distinct from the noun polls used for Election Day.
Conclusion
The word polls is a fundamental part of civic life. Whether you are discussing the act of casting a ballot or the specific building where that process takes place, using this word correctly will help you communicate clearly about the democratic process. Remember to keep it plural, use it with the word "to," and you will sound like a native speaker every time you talk about Election Day.