Leaders: meaning, definitions and examples

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leaders

[ˈliːdərz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in politics

The people in a country who govern it, especially when they are strong or effective.

Synonyms

governors, heads of state, rulers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
leaders	Refers to individuals who hold a position of power or authority in governance, organizations, or groups. World leaders will convene at the summit to discuss climate change. Community leaders worked together to improve local conditions.
rulers	Typically used to describe individuals who exercise control over a country or territory, often associated with monarchies or authoritarian regimes. This term can have a negative connotation, implying absolute or arbitrary power. The ruler of the kingdom issued a new set of laws. Under the rule of the dictator, freedom of speech was heavily restricted.
governors	Commonly refers to the elected heads of individual states or provinces in certain countries. The governor of California announced new budget plans. State governors met to discuss the response to the natural disaster.
heads of state	Designates the highest-ranking official in a country, often a president or monarch, representing the country both internally and externally. The head of state is visiting several countries in Europe this week. In many countries, the head of state performs ceremonial duties.

Examples of usage

The country's leaders condemned the violence.
She emerged as a strong leader during the crisis.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in a group or organization

The person who is in charge of a group, organization, or country.

Synonyms

chief, director, head.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
leaders	Used to refer to people who guide or command a group, organization, or country. It has a broad application ranging from political figures to business executives. The leaders of the world gathered for the summit. Strong leaders inspire their teams to achieve great results.
head	Commonly used in both educational and corporate environments to denote the principal person in charge of a group, department, or organization. It can be used both formally and informally. She is the head of the biology department. The head of the company addressed the employees.
director	Typically used in a corporate or organizational setting to refer to someone in charge of a specific department or operation. It emphasizes the role of overseeing functions and making strategic decisions. The director of marketing presented the new campaign. The film director discussed his vision with the crew.
chief	Often used in organizational or tribal contexts to signify the highest-ranking person or official, it usually holds a tone of respect and authority. The chief of the police department held a press conference. The tribal chief welcomed visitors to the village.

Examples of usage

He was elected as the new leader of the political party.
The team's leader guided them to victory.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in a movement or cause

A person who leads a movement or a cause, showing others the way and inspiring them.

Synonyms

advocate, champion, guide.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
leaders	General term for people who lead or are in charge of a group, organization, or country. The leaders of the company met to discuss the new strategy. Political leaders often have to make tough decisions.
guide	Describes someone who leads, directs, or advises others, especially in unfamiliar situations. Can be used in educational, travel, and mentoring contexts. The tour guide showed us around the ancient ruins. He acted as a mentor and guide for young entrepreneurs.
champion	Refers to someone who fights or supports a cause, often with a sense of dedication and enthusiasm. It can also mean a winner in sports competitions. He is a champion of environmental conservation. The tennis player was crowned champion after defeating her rival.
advocate	Used to describe someone who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy. Often used in legal, social, and political contexts. She is a passionate advocate for women's rights. The lawyer acted as an advocate for the defendant.

Examples of usage

She was a charismatic leader of the civil rights movement.
The environmental leader inspired many to take action.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'leader' comes from the Old English 'lædere,' which means 'one who leads,' highlighting the role of guidance.
Historically, leaders have been marked by titles such as 'king' or 'chief,' showing how leadership has ancient roots.
The concept of leadership has evolved, with democratic leaders becoming common in modern governance.

Psychology

Research shows effective leaders often possess emotional intelligence, helping them understand and manage people’s feelings.
Leadership styles can vary greatly, with some leaders being authoritative, while others may adopt a more democratic approach.
Studies indicate that leaders who encourage collaboration tend to foster innovation and creativity within their teams.

Literature

Classic literature often portrays leaders as heroic figures, with characters facing moral dilemmas that test their abilities.
In George Orwell's 'Animal Farm,' the dynamics of leadership are explored, illustrating how power can corrupt.
Many works of fiction depict the journey of a reluctant leader, showing personal growth and the struggle to accept responsibility.

Pop Culture

Movies like 'Remember the Titans' and '12 Angry Men' highlight the importance of strong leaders in overcoming challenges.
In video games, characters like Commander Shepard in 'Mass Effect' exemplify leadership through decision-making and teamwork.
Popular TV shows often cast characters in leadership roles, such as 'Parks and Recreation,' where the character Leslie Knope thrives as a dedicated leader.

Science

Scientific research suggests that effective leaders can improve team performance and morale significantly.
Studies in organizational behavior explore how leaders influence the culture of their workplaces, shaping attitudes and processes.
Neuroscience indicates that leaders who show empathy can activate positive responses in team members' brains, enhancing collaboration.

Translations

Translations of the word "leaders" in other languages:

🇵🇹 líderes

🇮🇳 नेता

🇩🇪 Führer

Anführer
Leiter

🇮🇩 pemimpin

🇺🇦 лідери

🇵🇱 liderzy

🇯🇵 リーダー

🇫🇷 leaders

dirigeants
chefs

🇪🇸 líderes

🇹🇷 liderler

önderler
yöneticiler

🇰🇷 지도자

🇸🇦 قادة

🇨🇿 vedoucí

🇸🇰 lídri

🇨🇳 领导人

🇸🇮 voditelji

🇮🇸 leiðtogar

🇰🇿 көшбасшылар

🇬🇪 ლიდერები

🇦🇿 liderlər

🇲🇽 líderes

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,444, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

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1441 drug
1442 adequate
1443 percentage
1444 leaders
1445 components
1446 sir
1447 secondary
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