Final answer:
A multi-party system is characterized by the existence of more than two significant political parties that must collaborate and share power to govern, often forming coalitions due to a wide range of political beliefs and ideologies.
Step-by-step explanation:
A key characteristic of a multi-party system within the political context is the existence of more than two significant political parties. Unlike a single-party system where one party dominates or a bipartisan system like in the United States, a multi-party system has several parties that significantly influence politics and policies. Political parties in these systems often represent a wider range of beliefs and must share power, sometimes forming coalition governments to operate effectively.
In a multi-party system, parties have distinct political ideologies and policies, and none of them can easily secure an absolute majority. This often leads to a need for collaboration among various parties to create a functioning government, as seen in countries like Germany and Ireland where power-sharing arrangements are common. These systems contrast with the United States, which operates under a two-party system due to its unique history and electoral rules.