Meaning of nuclear option | Babel Free

Definitions

1. In resolving a problem, the possible course of action that is considered the most extreme because of its collateral consequences.
   idiomatic
2. A procedure by which the United States Senate can decide any issue with a simple majority, rather than the usual supermajority.
   US

Examples

“Mr. Storey said his “nuclear option” was moving to Ocean Drive and living in his house full time, but that, too, came with obvious risks.”

“In a land that has weathered 12 military coups in the past 91 years, the specter of military intervention looms large, though Thitinan calls it a “nuclear option” given the challenges any new junta would face.”

“So now that the Republicans have used the nuclear option to kill the poor filibuster to clear the way for the elevation of Judge Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court, we can lose perspective.”

CEFR level