Devolve

usgb/dɪˈvɑːlv/
verb

To pass responsibilities, duties, or rights to another person or group from someone who has more power.

The federal government has the tendency to devolve certain responsibilities to state authorities.
Visual representation of "devolve" - To pass responsibilities, duties, or rights to another person or group from someone who has more power

Often appears as...

  • devolve responsibilities
  • devolve powers

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "devolve"
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Government Context

Often used in political or administrative discussions about distributing tasks.

Illustration for Government Context
To increase efficiency, the UN may devolve specific functions to regional offices.
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Not Always Physical

'Devolve' can mean passing non-tangible items like authority or a workload.

Illustration for Not Always Physical
After the election, the mayor chose to devolve some of her duties to her deputy.
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May Imply Reluctance

Sometimes used to suggest hesitation or unwillingness in the transfer of power.

Illustration for May Imply Reluctance
The company was forced to devolve management rights to local partners.
Visual representation of the word "Devolve"

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