executive

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "executive" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It can be used as both a noun and an adjective. For example: The executive board is meeting tomorrow to discuss changes to the company policy. The executive assistant was tasked with sending out the invitations.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Leigh Daynes, executive director of Doctors of the World UK, said: "The failure to ensure equitable access to healthcare across Europe is this century's hidden public health time bomb.

The Guardian

Helen Szoke, chief executive of Oxfam Australia, said her organisation "would have put the reduction of poverty as the first benchmark" in the revamped aid program and was "cautious" about the role of the private sector.

The Guardian

The EU executive in Brussels said on Wednesday that moves to reinstate the death penalty could incur curbs on Hungary's EU rights and entitlements.

The Guardian

There was similar scenes moments later in Ballieston, Glasgow East, where Sturgeon cast her vote with her husband and SNP chief executive, Peter Murrell.

The Guardian

Sheila Scott, chief executive of the National Care Association, which represents many smaller care home providers, said care costs could in many instances be approaching two-thirds of total fees because of the growing dependency of people entering residential care.

The Guardian

Over at another forum discussing the same topic (some folks are busy out there) there is indeed what appears to be a Google executive posting that recent changes in were "an enforcement of our viewcount policy".

The Guardian - Tech

First, Amec chief executive Samir Brikho is a boss who buys, and has bought well in the past.

The Guardian

Organisers said on Monday that the protest would not end until Beijing changes its electoral guidelines and Leung Chun-Ying, the city's pro-Beijing chief executive, steps down.

The Guardian

A judge accepted Whelan's offer to submit his passport and imposed conditions that prevented the executive from leaving the city for more than eight consecutive days without communicating his absence.

The Guardian - Sport

Bernstein has lived here for four decades, rising from lowliest clerk to chief executive.

The Guardian

In one instance, Koelma sent a draft letter from O'Farrell's office in support of AWH's bid for a lucrative public-private partnership to the water company's chief executive, Nick Di Girolamo, asking him for input.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "executive" as an adjective, ensure clarity by placing it before the noun it modifies (e.g., "executive decision"). Consider using synonyms like "managerial" or "leadership" if they fit the context better.

Common error

Avoid using "executive" as a direct substitute for "executive branch" when referring to the governmental system. While "executive" can describe roles within the branch, "executive branch" refers specifically to the part of government responsible for enforcing laws.

Linguistic Context

The word "executive" functions both as a noun, referring to a person in a high-level management position (as seen in Ludwig's examples like "chief executive") and as an adjective, describing something related to executive functions or powers. As Ludwig AI notes, the term is grammatically correct and widely usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

34%

Science

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "executive" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and an adjective, predominantly used in news, media, and formal business contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. When used as a noun, it refers to a high-level manager or official, while as an adjective, it describes something related to executive functions. Related terms include "chief officer", "senior manager", and "top official". A common error is misusing it interchangeably with "executive branch". In summary, "executive" is a crucial term for describing leadership and decision-making roles in various professional and governmental settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chief executive officer

This is a more specific and formal title for the highest-ranking executive.

chief officer

This alternative emphasizes the leadership aspect and top-level responsibility.

senior manager

This term highlights the managerial role and position within an organization.

top official

This option focuses on the high-ranking status and authority of the individual.

administrative leader

This phrase underscores the administrative and leadership qualities.

management team

This term shifts the focus to a group responsible for executive functions.

head of operations

This alternative specifies the area of responsibility within the organization.

decision maker

This phrase highlights the role of making important choices and setting direction.

director

This term indicates a leadership role with a focus on guidance and oversight.

board member

This option refers to a member of the governing body with executive power.

FAQs

How is the word "executive" used in a sentence?

The word "executive" can be used as a noun to refer to a person with high-level responsibilities or as an adjective to describe something related to the management of an organization. For example: "The executive board met today" or "She has executive power within the company".

What words can I use instead of "executive"?

Depending on the context, you can use words like "manager", "director", "administrator", "chief officer", or "leader" as alternatives to "executive".

Which is correct, "executive summary" or "summary for executives"?

Both phrases are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Executive summary" is a concise overview of a larger document tailored for decision-makers, while "summary for executives" simply means a summary designed for people in executive positions.

What's the difference between an "executive" and a "manager"?

While the terms "executive" and "manager" can overlap, an "executive" typically holds a higher-level position with broader strategic responsibilities, whereas a "manager" focuses on overseeing day-to-day operations and specific teams or projects.