Which term refers to the power of one branch of government to limit the actions of another branch?

The term that refers to the power of one branch of government to limit the actions of another branch is checks and balances. This system is a fundamental principle in the structure of the U.S. government, designed to ensure that no single branch—executive, legislative, or judicial—can dominate the others. Each branch has specific powers that can counteract the powers of the others, thereby promoting a balance of power and preventing abuse.

For instance, while the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch has the power to veto those laws, and the judicial branch can review the constitutionality of laws passed by the legislature. This interplay helps maintain accountability and encourages collaboration among the branches, ensuring a more stable government.

In contrast, federalism refers to the division of power between the national and state governments, while separation of powers delineates the distinct functions of each branch without focusing on their interactions. Judicial review is the power of courts to assess whether laws are in accordance with the Constitution, further illustrating the checks on governmental authority, but it is a function of the judicial branch specifically.