“Breaking quorum” means stopping enough members from being present so that a meeting or vote cannot legally continue. In other words, the group no longer has the minimum number of people needed to make decisions.
People usually use this phrase in politics, boards, or formal meetings. If a group wants to delay a vote or block a decision, members may leave the room or refuse to attend, which “breaks quorum” and pauses the process.
Meaning & Usage
Quorum is the minimum number of members required for a meeting to be valid. “Breaking quorum” happens when that number is lost, so the group cannot vote or take official action.
Examples
For example, if a city council needs 10 members to vote but only 9 remain, quorum is broken. The meeting may have to stop until enough people return.
Context / Common Use
This phrase is common in government, committees, unions, and other formal groups where decisions need a set number of people present.
What does breaking quorum do?
It prevents a meeting from making official decisions because there are not enough members present.
Is breaking quorum legal?
It can be, depending on the rules of the group or organization. It is often used as a tactic to delay action.
Where is this phrase most often used?
It is most often used in politics, board meetings, and other formal decision-making settings.
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