Cool MateCaptain
UK /["/ˈkæptɪn/"]/US /["/ˈkæptɪn/"]/
Definition
the person in charge of a ship or commercial aircraft
In simple words: A person in charge of a ship or team.
Examples
- The captain of the ship gave orders to the crew.
- Our team needs a strong captain to lead us to victory.
- After weeks of training, she was promoted to captain of the squad.
- The captain was responsible for the safety of all passengers on board.
- As captain, he must make tough decisions during the game.
Usage notes
Use 'captain' when referring to the leader of a ship or team. It's appropriate in most contexts, but can be seen as formal in casual discussions about sports.
Grammar pattern
captain + object
Memory hint
Think of a 'cap' on a 'tin' to remember 'captain' — the cap is the one in charge!
Collocations
- team captain
- captain of the ship
- captain's log
- captaincy position
Synonyms
- leader
- commander
- shipmaster
- pilot
- foreman
Antonyms
- crew
- subordinate
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'captain' with 'captivate', which means to attract or hold the interest of someone.
- Using 'captain' as a verb incorrectly, such as saying 'He captains the team' without context.
- Not differentiating between the rank of a 'captain' in different professions (military vs. maritime).