Preside: meaning, definitions and examples
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preside
[ prɪˈzaɪd ]
formal meeting
To preside means to be in charge of a formal meeting or ceremony, making sure that it runs smoothly and according to the rules. The person presiding over a meeting is responsible for maintaining order, recognizing speakers, and ensuring that all participants have the opportunity to express their views.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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preside |
Used when someone is in charge of a formal event, meeting, or ceremony, often in an official capacity.
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chair |
Typically used when someone is leading a meeting, committee, or organization, often on a regular basis.
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moderate |
Used when someone is facilitating a discussion or debate, ensuring that it proceeds smoothly and fairly.
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conduct |
Used when someone is leading or managing an activity, event, or group, with a focus on the process and execution.
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Examples of usage
- The judge will preside over the trial.
- The chairman will preside at the annual general meeting.
- She will preside over the ceremony.
authority
To preside can also refer to exercising authority or control over a situation or group of people. It implies leadership and decision-making responsibilities.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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preside |
This word is typically used in formal contexts where someone is in charge of a meeting, ceremony, or formal event.
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govern |
Governing refers to the act of ruling or managing a state, organization, or group. It often implies having authority and control.
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oversee |
Oversee is often used when someone is responsible for supervising or managing a task or group to ensure things are done correctly.
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lead |
Lead is a more general term and can be used in various contexts where someone is guiding, directing, or influencing others. It does not necessarily imply formal authority.
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Examples of usage
- The president presides over the country's affairs.
- The CEO presides over the company.
Translations
Translations of the word "preside" in other languages:
🇵🇹 presidir
🇮🇳 अध्यक्षता करना
🇩🇪 vorsitzen
🇮🇩 memimpin
🇺🇦 головувати
🇵🇱 przewodniczyć
🇯🇵 議長を務める (ぎちょうをつとめる)
🇫🇷 présider
🇪🇸 presidir
🇹🇷 başkanlık yapmak
🇰🇷 주재하다
🇸🇦 ترأس
🇨🇿 předsedat
🇸🇰 predsedávať
🇨🇳 主持 (zhǔchí)
🇸🇮 predsedovati
🇮🇸 stýra
🇰🇿 төрағалық ету
🇬🇪 თავმჯდომარეობა
🇦🇿 sədrlik etmək
🇲🇽 presidir
Etymology
The word 'preside' originates from the Latin word 'praesidere', which means 'to preside over' or 'to have charge of'. The term has been in use since the 15th century and has evolved to signify authority, leadership, and control in various contexts.
See also: presidency, president.