scheerresultaat

Scheerresultaat is a term used in Dutch-language political discourse to describe an election result that is exceptionally close. It refers to a situation in which the leading parties or candidates finish with vote shares so nearly equal that the ultimate outcome could have easily been different with a small shift in votes. The expression is primarily a descriptive, media-facing label rather than an official statistic.

Etymology and usage

The word scheerresultaat derives from the Dutch phrase for a close shave, implying that the result is so tight that a tiny change could have altered it. It is commonly employed by journalists, pollsters, and commentators to characterize margins that leave the final winner uncertain until all ballots are counted. The term is not codified in election law or formal reporting standards.

Measurement and scope

What counts as a scheerresultaat varies by context, but it typically involves margins measured in tenths or hundredths of a percentage point, or only a handful of seats in a legislative body. It can apply to national, regional, municipal elections, or referenda. In proportional systems, seat-by-seat margins may define the tie, whereas in plurality systems, vote-share margins sometimes determine the label. Recount procedures may be triggered or anticipated in such cases.

Implications

Close results often lead to extended coalition negotiations, strategic posturing, or formal recounts and legal challenges. They can create political uncertainty, affect policy agendas, and influence voters’ trust in electoral processes.

See also

Near-tie, close election, recount, margin of victory.