Article V
Short Definition
Article V is the part of the Constitution that explains how amendments are proposed and ratified.
Long Explanation
Article V creates the formal amendment process. It allows amendments to be proposed by two-thirds of both houses of Congress or by a convention called after applications from two-thirds of state legislatures. Proposed amendments become part of the Constitution only after ratification by three-fourths of the states. Article V makes constitutional change possible but deliberately difficult.
In practice, Article V is useful because it helps a visitor connect a word or phrase to government records, official decisions, public services, or civic responsibilities. When you see the term in an official source, ask which office has authority, what decision is being made, which deadline or rule matters, and where the public record can be checked.
Examples
Common Misconception
A common mistake is treating Article V as a slogan instead of a term connected to a specific public process. The safest approach is to ask what authority, document, deadline, office, or public record gives the term its meaning.
Related Terms
ConstitutionAmendmentsArticle V
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