Chief: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to the person with the highest rank or authority, especially in an organization or group. Commonly used in formal settings or titles.

• The chief of police addressed the media about the new safety measures.
• She was appointed as the chief editor of the magazine.

Refers to a person who guides or directs a group, organization, or country. Often used in the context of someone who inspires and influences others.

• Nelson Mandela was a great leader who fought against apartheid.
• Our team leader organized a meeting to discuss the project.

Refers to the person leading a department, team, or organization. Commonly used in academic, business, and organizational contexts.

• She is the head of the marketing department.
• The head of the school gave a speech on graduation day.

Informal term for someone who is in charge of a worker or organization. Often used in everyday conversation.

• My boss gave me a day off for my birthday.
• He's a tough boss, but he gets the job done.

Used to describe the leader or most important person in a group or organization. It can also refer to the main part of something.

• The chief of the village was highly respected.
• Safety is our chief concern.

Refers to the most important or primary part of something, often used in everyday language.

• This is the main entrance to the building.
• Her main goal is to graduate college.

Used to indicate something that is first in importance or order. Often found in more formal contexts, especially education and official documents.

• Her primary responsibility is to care for the children.
• The primary reason for his success is hard work.

Refers to the most important or leading part of something, often used in formal contexts. It can also mean the head of a school.

• The principal reason for their decision was financial.
• The school principal addressed the assembly.

Formal contexts, often used to describe a leader or someone in the highest position of authority.

• He is the chief of the tribe.
• The chief architect presented the new design.

Casual or formal contexts, used to describe something as being of the highest quality or most favorable.

• This is the best coffee I've ever had.
• She is the best candidate for the job.

Neutral contexts, used to refer to something of primary importance or central to the discussion.

• The main topic of the meeting was budget cuts.
• She lives on Main Street.

Formal contexts, often used in academic, technical, or official documents to denote the most important element or stage.

• Her primary goal is to improve education.
• Primary elections will be held next month.