president - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
president Word Meanings
- the elected head of a republic
- a leader or officer of an organization
- a person in authority
president Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
president Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈprɛzɪdənt/
US
/ˈprɛzɪdənt/
president Word Etymology
president = pre- (before) + sis (to sit) + -ent (one who) → Latin 'praesidens' → Old French 'president' → English. Imagine a person sitting at the front of a meeting, leading the discussion and making decisions.
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 breathe in and shift my posture, imagining I am stepping toward a crowd. I move toward the podium in my mind, set the notes, and pull them into view. As I speak, the room answers with a soft ripple, and I feel the weight of keeping a steady course. The moment changes from idea to action, and I learn to hold, adjust, and guide as needs shift.
Real Context
A president is the elected head of a republic in many countries, typically chosen by voters in national elections. The word can also describe the leader or chief officer of a club, association, or corporation, where the title signals authority, responsibility, and representation. In political contexts, presidents may have varying powers and duties depending on the constitution, ranging from largely ceremonial to deeply executive. In everyday speech, people refer to a president as 'the president of the United States' or 'the club president.' Learners should note the common collocations: president of a country, company president, former president, acting president, presidential candidate. Etymology highlights a sense of presiding over meetings or gatherings.
Usage Reminders
- - Use for heads of state; - Not every organization uses president as a title; - Learn forms like acting president and president-elect; - Pair president with country or organization; - Watch gendered forms (president vs presidentess is rare).
Common Misconceptions
- Presidents only lead countries, not organizations
- All leaders of organizations are called president
- Presidents must have full executive power everywhere
- The title always indicates political power
- President and chairman are interchangeable
Thinking Differences
In English, 'president' is strongly tied to a national office, with clear distinctions between heads of state, organizations, and ceremonial roles. Learners often default to one word for all leaders or misplace the title in corporate contexts.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main collocations: president of a country, company president, former president, acting president, presidential candidate
- Distinguish national leadership from organizational leadership
- Pay attention to gender: president is gender-neutral, female forms are rare
- Use correct articles: the president of the United States, a club president
- Note related terms: presidency, president-elect, vice president
- Practice common phrases with different organizations
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'president'?
A.Cooking utensil
B.Doctor's assistant
C.Leader of a country
D.Baker's apprentice
Step 2: Usage
In which context would you use the word 'president'?
A.Talking about a new recipe
B.Fixing a car
C.Playing a sport
D.Discussing healthcare
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'president'?
A.Athlete
B.Chef
C.Prime Minister
D.Artist
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'president'?
A.Citizen
B.Secretary
C.Employee
D.Student
Step 5: Mastery
How is the word 'president' used in real-life?
A.The plumber fixed the sink
B.The chef cooked a delicious meal
C.The teacher graded the exams
D.The president gave a speech to the nation
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