chairman - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
chairman Word Meanings
- the person who leads a meeting or organization
- the presiding officer of an assembly
- a person in charge of a committee or board
chairman Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
chairman Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtʃeə.mən/
US
/ˈtʃer.mən/
chairman Word Etymology
Chairman = chair + man. The term comes from Middle English, derived from 'chaire' (Latin 'cathedra') + 'man'. Imagine a distinguished figure sitting confidently in a large chair, leading a pivotal meeting with authority.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I move a chair to face the group and set my notes on the table. I hold the room's attention as I steer the meeting, turning rough ideas into a clear path. That push-pull feel gives me a sense of control, and I decide when to have whom speak and where to go next. In practice, this is how I chair the session: I keep things moving, give each voice a turn, and push decisions forward.
Real Context
In English, chairman refers to the person who leads a meeting or organization and keeps the discussion on track. The term focuses on the role and authority rather than gender. A chairman commonly sets the agenda, chairs the committee or board, and speaks on behalf of the group in formal settings. It can describe the presiding officer of an assembly such as a city council, a corporate board, or a professional association. Although traditional usage implied male leadership, many organizations now prefer gender neutral terms like chairperson or chair. Learners should note collocations such as chair a meeting, chair a committee, or be chairman of a department, while considering context, formality, and audience.
Usage Reminders
- • Use chairman for the formal leader of a meeting or board.
- • It marks a role, not a body part.
- • Be aware of gender, and prefer neutral terms when appropriate.
- • Learn key verbs: chair (to lead), chairing (the act), chaired (past).
- • Distinguish chairman from president or CEO in context.
- • Practice with different audiences to choose formality.
Common Misconceptions
- It must be male.
- It only refers to corporate boards.
- It is interchangeable with president or CEO in all contexts.
- It means the person literally sits in a chair all the time.
- It automatically implies more power than other leaders.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: English distinguishes chairing from other leadership roles via clear collocations (chair a meeting) and prefers neutral alternatives in many contexts. Learners often overuse chairman or assume male connotations; be mindful of audience and formality.
Learning Tips
- Learn that chairman is a formal leadership title.
- Know the verb to chair and the noun chairing.
- Use chairperson or chair in gender-neutral contexts.
- Practice collocations: chair a meeting, chair a committee.
- Distinguish chairman from president or CEO by context.
- Expose yourself to real-world examples to sense formality.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'chairman'?
A.Fast runner
B.Leader of a meeting
C.Quiet individual
D.Energetic person
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'chairman' typically used in a sentence?
A.The chairman played soccer.
B.The chairman leads the company.
C.The chairman slept through the meeting.
D.The chairman sang a song.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'chairman'?
A.Employee
B.President
C.Secretary
D.Intern
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'chairman'?
A.Follower
B.Director
C.Manager
D.Assistant
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would you expect to encounter the word 'chairman'?
A.At a doctor's office
B.In a library
C.During a business meeting
D.While shopping for groceries
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