To determine the best statement describing a difference between a democracy and a republic, we need to analyze each option in relation to the characteristics of these two forms of government.

Solution By Steps

Step 1: Analyze Option A

Option A suggests that in a republic, citizens can influence the government both directly and indirectly, while in a democracy, influence is only indirect. This is incorrect as democracy allows for both direct (e.g., referendums) and indirect (e.g., elected representatives) influence.

Step 2: Analyze Option B

Option B states that in a republic, citizens grant sovereignty to the government, while in a democracy, sovereignty comes from an absolute monarch. This is incorrect as both republics and democracies derive sovereignty from the people, not from monarchs.

Step 3: Analyze Option C

Option C claims that in a republic, citizens have unlimited power, while in a democracy, citizens’ power is limited. This is incorrect as both forms of government typically have checks and balances to prevent unlimited power.

Step 4: Analyze Option D

Option D asserts that in a democracy, citizens can influence the government both directly and indirectly, while in a republic, influence is only indirect. This aligns more closely with the general understanding of these forms of government. Democracies often allow for direct participation through voting on issues (direct democracy) or representatives (representative democracy), while republics are typically understood as representative forms where citizens influence through elected officials.

Final Answer

Option D best describes a difference between a democracy and a republic: Citizens in a democracy can either directly or indirectly influence the government, while citizens in a republic can only indirectly influence government through elected officials.