What does the term "no confidence vote" mean?

The term "no confidence vote" refers specifically to a parliamentary procedure that allows the legislative body to remove a sitting government official, usually the head of government, such as a prime minister. When a no confidence vote is initiated, it is typically a response to dissatisfaction with the government’s performance or policies. If the government loses the vote, it signals that it no longer has the support of the majority in the legislative body, which can lead to the resignation of the official or the dissolution of the government.

In many parliamentary systems, this mechanism serves as a check on government power by ensuring that elected officials remain accountable to the legislature. It underscores the collaborative nature of governance in a parliamentary system, where the executive branch must maintain the confidence of the legislature to govern effectively. Other options may not capture the specific and formal nature of this political procedure, which is focused on accountability and control within the government.