Officiate: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about performing official duties, often in ceremonies or sports events. It implies a formal role and impartiality.

• The priest will officiate the wedding ceremony.
• He was chosen to officiate the football match.

Used when leading or directing an activity, typically with more involvement in the process. It can apply to research, meetings, or performance.

• They conducted a survey to gather feedback.
• The orchestra conductor will conduct Beethoven's Symphony.

Applicable when someone is leading or overseeing a formal meeting or gathering. It implies authority and responsibility.

• The judge will preside over the court proceedings.
• She will preside at the annual shareholder meeting.

Appropriate when talking about managing or overseeing tasks, responsibilities, or processes. It has a slightly formal tone, often used in legal, medical, or organizational contexts.

• The nurse will administer the medication.
• She administered the funds for the charity organization.

Used in formal contexts to describe someone who oversees a ceremony or event, such as a wedding or sports game, ensuring everything runs according to rules or traditions.

• He will officiate the wedding ceremony next month
• The local priest was asked to officiate at the church service

Commonly used in sports contexts to refer to the official who enforces the rules during a game and makes decisions on penalties. Can be informal in other situations where someone is needed to settle disputes.

• The referee blew the whistle to start the match
• They asked a senior colleague to act as referee during their debate

Specifically used for officials in certain sports such as baseball, cricket, and tennis. An umpire ensures the game is played fairly and according to the rules.

• The umpire called the player out at first base
• The umpire had to make a tough decision during the final set

Mainly used within the legal system to describe someone who presides over court cases, making decisions based on law. Can also be used in competitions to denote the person who scores or evaluates performances.

• The judge sentenced him to five years in prison
• She was chosen to judge the baking competition