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chief

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /tʃiːf/

KK: /tʃif/

adjective
Definition

This word describes someone or something that holds the highest position or is the most important in a group or organization.


Example

The chief engineer is responsible for overseeing the entire project.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the new project at work?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard it's going to be our chief focus for the next few months.
Sloth A
I think it's great that we're prioritizing it.
Sloth B
Absolutely, having a chief goal will help us stay on track.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
main
primary
principal
Antonyms
minor
secondary
insignificant
adverb
Definition

Not a valid English word.


Example

Not available


Conversation
Sloth A
I read that the event is chief to our community's history.
Sloth B
Really? I didn't know it was so important.
Sloth A
Yeah, it’s chiefly about honoring our traditions.
Sloth B
noun
Definition

A person who has the highest rank or authority in a group or organization; a leader or boss.


Example

The chief of the tribe made an important decision for the community.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that our new chief is coming to visit this week?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard! I'm curious to see what they’re like.
Sloth A
I hope they're friendly; we could use a good chief in the office.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Chief → The word originates from Old French 'chief' (meaning leader or head), which comes from Latin 'caput' (meaning head). It refers to the person who is at the top or in charge.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'leader' ('chief') being the 'head' ('caput') of a group, which helps you remember that a chief is the person in charge.

Visually Confused Words
chef
cochief
thief
chive
chine
chime
chile
chide
Is this page helpful?
That makes sense! I’d love to learn more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
mainly
primarily
largely
Antonyms
secondarily
minimally
subordinately
For sure! A great leader can really change the atmosphere.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
leader
head
director
Antonyms
subordinate
follower
underling