B2adjective2K

Chief

UK /["/tʃiːf/"]/US /["/tʃiːf/"]/

Definition

most important

In simple words: The main person in charge of a group or organization.

Examples

  • The chief of the department announced a new policy on employee conduct.
  • As chief engineer, she was responsible for overseeing all projects.
  • He is the chief contributor to the latest research paper.
  • The chief complaint among the residents was the lack of public transportation.
  • In a chief role, leadership qualities are essential for success.

Usage notes

Use 'chief' to refer to leaders or heads in various contexts, such as 'chief executive officer' or 'tribal chief'. Avoid using in very informal contexts where simpler terms like 'boss' might be more suitable.

Grammar pattern

chief + of + group/organization

Memory hint

Think of a 'chief' as the captain of a ship, leading the crew.

Collocations

  • chief executive
  • chief officer
  • chief complaint
  • police chief
  • chief justice

Synonyms

  • leader
  • head
  • director
  • boss
  • ruler

Antonyms

  • subordinate
  • follower
  • employee

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'chiefly' (which means mainly or mostly).
  • Used as a verb (it's only a noun).
  • Mixing it up with terms like 'leader' without considering size or type of group.