Representative government can be described in numerous ways, with several synonyms that can be used to define the term. An indirect democracy, a republic or a democratic system is commonly used interchangeably with representative government. It can also be referred to as a parliamentary system, where elected representatives are mandated to make decisions on behalf of the people. Another term for representative government is a popular government, where the people govern through elected officials. It can also be described as a constitutional government, where a constitution outlines the principles of governing and the role of elected officials in representation and policymaking. In essence, each synonym encapsulates the same fundamental values of elected representation and the people's authority in decision-making.