Short answer
A primary is a preliminary election in a nomination process. A runoff is a later election held when no candidate reaches the threshold required by the jurisdiction rules. Some states use primary runoffs, so the terms can overlap rather than name opposite kinds of election. 1 2 3
A primary can be followed by a runoff; primary describes function, runoff describes a later resolution round.
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At a glance
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| Question | Primary election | Runoff election |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Choose or narrow candidates for a later contest | Resolve a contest after no qualifying winner |
| Timing | Initial nominating vote | After an earlier primary or general vote |
| Can be both? | Yes, in a primary-runoff system | Yes, a runoff may complete a primary |
The table summarizes the cited definitions and the article’s stated scope. 1 2 3
What each thing is
Primary election. An election used to nominate candidates or narrow a field for a later contest under applicable rules. 1
Runoff election. A later election used to resolve a contest when the first vote did not meet the required winning threshold. 2
Key differences
Georgia offers a straightforward example: a runoff can follow an election with no required majority winner. But triggers, thresholds and offices vary across states. A presidential primary delegates process is not identical to every state office primary. 1 2 3
How to tell them apart
Ask what stage the election serves. Is it the first vote to choose nominees, or a follow-up vote after an inconclusive result? Check the state election office for the actual threshold and eligible voters. 1 2 3
Where they overlap
A runoff can be part of a primary process; both stages may appear on the same election calendar. Both count votes and can change who advances. 1 2 3
Edge cases
Some runoffs follow general elections rather than primaries. Some jurisdictions use plurality winners or ranked-choice procedures instead of a separate runoff. This article does not impose Georgia rules nationwide. 1 2 3
Why the distinction exists
Separate terms help voters understand whether a ballot begins candidate selection or resolves a previous vote. 1 2 3
Common misconceptions
A runoff is not always a general election, and every primary does not automatically require a runoff. 1 2 3
Examples
Three candidates compete in a Georgia primary and none reaches the required threshold. The top two may meet in a primary runoff. 1 2 3
Sources
Sources checked October 3, 2026.
- USAGov — Presidential Primaries and Caucuses. Primary definition.
- Georgia.gov — Vote in Runoff Elections. Runoff trigger.
- Georgia.gov — General Primary Runoff Early Voting. Primary runoff trigger.