Written by attorneys · grounded in primary & secondary sources — see below
A negative vote cast during a proceeding or assembly.
Sources & Authorities· 13 primary sources
Select any source to read its text and confirm it supports the definition.
Cases
Statutes
Federal Rules
Uniform Acts
How it applies
Common Examples
6
Jury Demand Vote in Civil Suit
Nyah Ndlovu moved at a legislative hearing to preserve jury trials in common-law suits exceeding twenty dollars. Neville Norton cast a nay vote against the measure. The nay prevented the bill from advancing, leaving the Seventh Amendment right intact for future litigants.
Lease Validation Ballot
Nancy Nelson proposed validating an oral lease after the tenant took possession and paid rent. Noah Nakamura cast a nay vote at the owners' meeting. The nay blocked validation, leaving only a tenancy at will under the statute of frauds rule.
The board of Nobel Dynamics considered a resolution to treat the corporation as an alter ego. Nicole Navarro cast a nay vote on the resolution. The nay preserved the separate corporate existence and blocked the fraud finding.
Temporary Impracticability Vote
Nightingale Healthcare directors voted on whether to suspend performance during a brief supply shortage. Noelle North cast a nay vote against immediate discharge. The nay kept the duty alive once the shortage ended.
Volitional Act Determination
At a torts committee meeting, members voted on whether a reflexive muscle contraction counted as an act. Norton Bank’s representative cast a nay vote against liability. The nay confirmed that no act occurred and shielded the defendant.
Servitude Maintenance Ballot
New Horizon Media owners voted on repair duties for a shared easement. Neville Norton cast a nay vote against joint contribution. The nay left each beneficiary responsible only for portions under its own control.
Common questions
Frequently Asked
3
What does a nay vote signify in parliamentary procedure?+
A nay vote registers opposition to a pending motion or measure. It is recorded as a negative and can prevent passage when enough nays are cast.
Does a nay vote have the same effect as an abstention?+
No. A nay vote actively counts against the motion, whereas an abstention does not register either support or opposition.
Can a nay vote be withdrawn after the result is announced?+
Generally not. Once the chair announces the result, the vote stands unless the body permits a change by unanimous consent or special rule.
5 U.S. (1 Cranch) 137 (1803)Property
…matters respecting foreign affairs as the President should assign. Respecting the powers given and duties imposed by this act, no mandamus will lie because the Secretary is responsible only to the President. The second act at the same session, 15 September 1789, changed the name to Department of State and assigned…