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Multiple Choice

What is an election in a single constituency between general elections called?

A by-election is an election held in a single constituency to fill a vacancy between general elections. It happens when an MP’s seat becomes vacant—often due to death, resignation, or disqualification—and only that one seat is contested. General elections decide all constituencies at once, so this special election keeps the rest of the Parliament unchanged until the next general election. Other terms don’t fit UK practice for filling a vacant seat between general elections, whereas a by-election specifically describes a one-seat contest in a single constituency.

A by-election is an election held in a single constituency to fill a vacancy between general elections. It happens when an MP’s seat becomes vacant—often due to death, resignation, or disqualification—and only that one seat is contested. General elections decide all constituencies at once, so this special election keeps the rest of the Parliament unchanged until the next general election. Other terms don’t fit UK practice for filling a vacant seat between general elections, whereas a by-election specifically describes a one-seat contest in a single constituency.