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third force
noun
: a grouping (as of political parties or international powers) intermediate between two opposing political forces
Examples of third force in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Of course, the AKPs founders, including the current prime minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, originally arose from a third force in Turkish politics -- Islamism.
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Mustafa Akyol, Foreign Affairs, 19 Aug. 2010
While the frontrunners represent different sides of the country’s political establishment, a third force has emerged as a challenger in the election.
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Julia Malleck, Quartz, 11 May 2023
Obi, 61, has gained in popularity and is seen as the third force candidate that could emerge as leader.
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Stephanie Busari, CNN, 26 Feb. 2023
Two, the Alliance Party, which challenges the traditional Protestant-Catholic division that has defined Northern Ireland since its inception, scored its best-ever result and has now established itself as a genuine third force in Northern Irish politics.
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Tom McTague, The Atlantic, 6 May 2022
In 2020, 40% of this potential third force voted for Joe Biden, 27% for Donald Trump.
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William A. Galston, WSJ, 1 Nov. 2022
With its mixture of patriotism and populist provocation, Vox has become the third force in the national parliament and might emerge as the kingmaker in Madrid’s May 4 election.
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Fox News, 3 May 2021
Or as a third force balancing between the two poles?
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The Economist, 16 Feb. 2020
Midway through the third quarter, the Bulldogs sacked Plumlee three times on the same drive, the third forcing a fumble.
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chicagotribune.com, 28 Nov. 2019
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Word History
First Known Use
1936, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near third force
Cite this Entry
“Third force.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/third%20force. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.
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