C1noun3K

Deputy

UK /["/ˈdepjuti/"]/US /["/ˈdepjuti/"]/

Definition

a person who is the next most important person below a business manager, a head of a school, a political leader, etc. and who does that person’s job when they are away

In simple words: A person appointed to act for another, especially in a government or organization.

Examples

  • I'm acting as deputy till the manager returns.
  • She was appointed deputy head of the school.
  • A new deputy has not yet been appointed.
  • She is acting as deputy to the chairman of the board.
  • a former deputy chairman of the Democratic Party
  • 23 women were among the 77 deputies elected.

Usage notes

Used in various contexts, including law enforcement and organizational roles. Considered formal and appropriate in professional settings, but may sound out of place in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

deputy + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'deputy' as a 'do-it-for-you' person, always ready to step in.

Collocations

  • acting
  • former
  • chief
  • appoint (somebody as)
  • act as
  • chair
  • chairman
  • chief
  • deputy to
  • parliamentary
  • opposition
  • right-wing
  • elect

Synonyms

  • assistant
  • aide
  • proxy
  • representative
  • substitute

Antonyms

  • leader
  • chief
  • head

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'deputy' as a standalone term without a clear noun.
  • Misused as a verb instead of a noun.
  • Learners may confuse 'deputy' with similar-sounding terms like 'deputize'.