Ever heard the phrase "loyal opposition?"

[raccoon]

Definition from Wikipedia:

Loyal opposition

In parliamentary systems of government, the loyal opposition is the opposition parties in the legislature. The word loyal indicates that the non-governing parties may oppose the actions of the sitting cabinet while remaining loyal to the formal source(s) of the government's power, such as the monarch or constitution. This loyalty allows for a peaceful transition of power and ongoing strengthening of democratic institutions. The idea of inquisitorial opposition that held the executive to account emerged in Great Britain.

[Hekate]

1. Not lately

Altho I grew up hearing it and believing it.

[OriginalGeek]

2. I've only ever heard it in TV shows

and I just thought it meant "Hey, I don't agree with you and I will work to advance my agenda over yours but we're still friends".

never thought about it much more than that.

[mwooldri]

3. UK also has a "shadow cabinet".

Unlike the US, the executive and legislative branches of government are effectively "merged" in the UK system (though the UK has a more dominant "career" civil service system with fewer political appointees). Effectively the members of the shadow cabinet are chief spokespersons for the main opposition party with respect to specific government departments - e.g. shadow minister for defence would speak to the party's positions regarding national defence. Also gives a clear idea if that party to win a general election as to who would run a specific government department and what the policies would be.