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Deputies: meaning, definitions and examples

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deputies

 

[ˈdɛpjʊtɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

government

Elected officials who represent a specific constituency in a legislative body, such as a parliament or congress. Deputies are responsible for proposing, debating, and voting on laws and policies.

Synonyms

lawmakers, legislators, representatives.

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Word Description / Examples
deputies

Often used to refer to individuals in certain legislative bodies or local government officials, particularly in European countries. It can also refer to second-in-command officials in various organizations.

  • The deputies gathered in the chamber to vote on the new policy
  • The sheriff's deputies helped control the crowd during the event
representatives

Refers to elected officials, particularly members of the lower house in a bicameral legislature, such as the House of Representatives in the United States. It emphasizes the idea of representing the people.

  • The representatives from various districts met to discuss the healthcare reform
  • As a representative, she is committed to addressing the concerns of her constituents
legislators

A formal term used to refer to members of a legislative body, more commonly used in official or academic contexts, and it can apply to both national and regional legislative bodies.

  • The legislators introduced a new amendment to the constitution
  • State legislators are considering new measures to improve public education
lawmakers

A general term used to describe individuals who make laws, typically in a national or state legislature. It has a broad application and can be used to describe members of any legislative body.

  • The lawmakers debated the bill for hours before reaching a consensus
  • Environmental groups are lobbying lawmakers to pass tougher pollution regulations

Examples of usage

  • The deputies in the parliament debated the new tax legislation.
  • The deputies from different parties clashed over the proposed budget cuts.
Context #2 | Noun

legal

In some legal systems, a deputy is a person appointed to act on behalf of another, such as a deputy sheriff who assists the sheriff in carrying out law enforcement duties.

Synonyms

assistant, deputized person, substitute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
deputies

Typically used in formal or governmental contexts to refer to individuals who have been appointed to take on specific duties or represent higher authorities. Common in law enforcement, politics, and corporate hierarchy.

  • The sheriff appointed two new deputies to help him maintain order in the town.
  • The deputies in parliament voted on the new law.
assistant

Commonly used in everyday and professional contexts to describe someone who helps another person, often in administrative or clerical roles. It is typically less formal than 'deputy' and more general.

  • My assistant scheduled all my meetings for the week.
  • The doctor's assistant prepared the examination room.
substitute

Used in both formal and informal contexts to describe someone who temporarily takes the place of another person. It does not usually imply formal appointment or long-term authority.

  • The substitute teacher covered the math class while the regular teacher was on medical leave.
  • She acted as a substitute manager during his vacation.
deputized person

Primarily used in legal or authoritative contexts to refer to a person who has been given temporary authority or appointed for a specific task. This term is less common in everyday usage.

  • During the emergency, the mayor allowed a deputized person to enforce curfew laws.
  • The security firm had a deputized person on duty at the event.

Examples of usage

  • The deputy sheriff arrested the suspect in the criminal investigation.
  • The attorney appointed a deputy to handle the case while she was out of town.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'deputy' comes from the Latin word 'deputare', which means 'to appoint or assign'.
  • In medieval times, deputies were often nobles or wealthy individuals appointed to act for a king or leader.
  • The role of a deputy has evolved over centuries, becoming formalized in various government and law enforcement sectors.

Government

  • In many countries, deputies serve in a legislative capacity, representing specific areas and helping make laws.
  • Deputies often have the authority to act on behalf of their superiors, especially in emergency situations.
  • In the U.S., the term 'deputy' is commonly used in law enforcement, indicating officers who assist sheriffs.

Pop Culture

  • Deputies are frequently depicted in movies and TV shows as heroic sidekicks or supporting characters who face danger alongside their leaders.
  • Famous deputy characters include the deputy sheriffs in Western films, often portrayed as gallant protectors of justice.
  • Animated films often illustrate deputies as lovable sidekicks with catchy personalities, helping the main hero.

Law Enforcement

  • Deputies play a crucial role in community policing, building relationships with citizens to enhance public safety.
  • Much like police officers, deputies can carry badges, firearms, and have the power to make arrests.
  • In many areas, deputy positions can include specialized roles such as K-9 handlers or SWAT team members.

Education

  • Items such as deputy head teachers help principals in managing schools and ensuring student discipline.
  • Similar to their government counterparts, educational deputies assist leaders in setting policies and overseeing operations.
  • These positions often require advanced degrees and specialized training in educational leadership.

Translations

Translations of the word "deputies" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deputados

🇮🇳 उपायुक्तों

🇩🇪 Abgeordnete

🇮🇩 wakil

🇺🇦 депутати

🇵🇱 deputowani

🇯🇵 代理人

🇫🇷 députés

🇪🇸 diputados

🇹🇷 milletvekilleri

🇰🇷 대리인

🇸🇦 نواب

🇨🇿 poslanci

🇸🇰 poslanci

🇨🇳 代表

🇸🇮 poslanci

🇮🇸 þingmenn

🇰🇿 депутаттар

🇬🇪 დეპუტატები

🇦🇿 deputatlar

🇲🇽 diputados

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,518 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.