Supervisor: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is typically used in a formal work environment to refer to someone who oversees the work of others, often in settings like offices, factories, or service industries.

• My supervisor approved my vacation request
• The supervisor is responsible for ensuring safety regulations are followed

A common term used across various industries to refer to someone who is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing employees and operations within a company or department. It often implies a higher level of authority and responsibility.

• The store manager is in charge of inventory
• As a project manager, she coordinates the team's activities and communicates with clients

A more casual and colloquial term used to refer to someone who has authority over you at work. It can be used in various settings and is often imprecise about the specific role or level of authority.

• I have to ask my boss for a day off
• The boss wasn't happy with our sales figures this quarter

A term primarily used in construction, manufacturing, and other industrial settings to refer to someone who oversees a group of workers on-site. This person is responsible for the direct management and coordination of tasks.

• The foreman assigned the crew their tasks for the day
• The foreman ensures that the project is completed on schedule

Commonly used in a workplace or academic setting to describe someone who oversees and coordinates the work of employees, students, or tasks.

• My supervisor approved my vacation request.
• She is the supervisor of the research team.

Often used in a school setting to describe a teacher who has additional responsibilities, such as administrative duties or leadership roles within the school.

• The head teacher organized a meeting with the parents.
• Our head teacher has 20 years of teaching experience.

Typically used in an educational or corporate environment to refer to the leader of a specific department or division.

• The department head announced the new curriculum changes.
• He is the department head of human resources.

Used mainly in educational environments to describe an experienced teacher who guides other educators and ensures high teaching standards.

• She was promoted to lead educator because of her innovative teaching methods.
• The lead educator provides training for new teachers.

Used in a work or educational setting to refer to someone who oversees and evaluates the performance of others.

• My supervisor gave me feedback on my project.
• The supervisor is responsible for ensuring the team meets its goals.

Used to describe a professional who provides guidance and support, especially in emotional, mental health, or educational contexts.

• I spoke with a school counselor about my college options.
• She sees a counselor once a week to manage her anxiety.

Used to describe a professional who provides treatment for mental, emotional, or physical issues, often in a clinical or medical setting.

• She is seeing a therapist to deal with her depression.
• The physical therapist helped him recover after his surgery.

Used in contexts where someone provides advice, guidance, and support, usually in a professional or personal development setting.

• My mentor helped me navigate the challenges of my new job.
• Having a mentor made a big difference in my career growth.