B2nounformal2K

Minister

UK /["/ˈmɪnɪstə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈmɪnɪstər/"]/

Definition

a senior member of the government who is in charge of a government department or a branch of one

In simple words: A person who leads a church or is part of a government.

Examples

  • The Minister announced new policies to improve education.
  • She was appointed as the Minister of Health last year.
  • The government's Minister for Environment addressed climate change at the conference.
  • As a Minister of the church, he provided guidance and support to his congregation.
  • Every Minister in the cabinet has a specific role to play in the governance of the country.

Usage notes

Used in formal contexts, often referring to religious leaders or government officials. It's not appropriate for casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'minister' as a 'man in a suit' — they are usually well-dressed.

Collocations

  • prime
  • chief
  • principal
  • appoint (somebody)
  • appoint somebody as
  • be named
  • resign
  • retire
  • be accountable to somebody
  • minister for
  • minister of
  • Christian
  • Presbyterian
  • Protestant
  • ordain (somebody)
  • ordain somebody as
  • preach (something)
  • a minister of religion

Synonyms

  • clergyman
  • pastor
  • official
  • leader
  • representative

Antonyms

  • citizen
  • layperson

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'ministry' which refers to the group or department.
  • Using 'minister' as a verb, when it is only a noun.
  • Mixing up the roles of a minister in church vs. government.