head of the temple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "head of the temple" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the leader or chief authority of a religious temple or institution. Example: "The head of the temple delivered a powerful sermon that resonated with the congregation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

For a witty twist, substitute the head of the temple guard for Professor Phil Redmond.

The Guardian

"I don't think the head of the temple is at all scared of the government," Dr. Luo said.

The New York Times

But I was curious about the show and arranged to visit the head of the temple, a man named Wu Zhiyou.

The New Yorker

After I talked to Shu Yi, I went back to see Wu Zhiyou, the head of the temple, and asked him about the story of Lao She's final night.

The New Yorker

"The monks thought it was a really wild idea to have a temple of this size," Sadhaka Haranandinatha, one of 21 monks in the monastery that serves as the church's headquarters and also head of the temple fund-raising project, said about the guru's idea for the temple.

The New York Times

"I was brought up strictly orthodox on the lower East side of Manhattan and I hope I don't live to see the day this is no longer an Orthodox synagogue," said Mr. Schecter, who until recently served as treasurer and is still considered the unofficial head of the temple.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

There is no age requirement for temporary monks, said Ashin Indaka, the head monk of the temple, beyond the desire to be one.

The New York Times

Mr. Mori, 48, the 21st head priest of the temple, was unsure whether it would survive into the tenure of a 22nd.

The New York Times

One of the early Brahmans (members of the priestly class) who began to guide the movement was Nathamuni (10th century), head priest of the temple at Srirangam (in modern Tamil Nadu state).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The collected wisdom of the monks shapes the character of Master Fung, the head of the Xiaolin Temple and mentor to the four adventurers.

The New York Times

Brush upwards on both sides of the head from the temple, pulling that section of hair together in the middle of the scalp and applying a barrette.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a specific individual, use the person's name or title (e.g., "High Priest Smith") for clarity. This helps avoid ambiguity and provides context.

Common error

Avoid using "head of the temple" when referring to general management or administrative roles within a temple. Instead, specify their function such as "temple administrator" or "treasurer".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "head of the temple" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying the person in charge of a religious temple. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It's often used to denote authority and leadership within a religious institution, as shown in the examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

22%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "head of the temple" is a grammatically sound and usable noun phrase that identifies the person in charge of a religious temple. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is typically used in neutral contexts, such as news articles and encyclopedias, as well as informal situations. While not extremely common, it is important to use precise language and specify functions to avoid confusion, given the diversity of roles in the temple. Ludwig examples show its usage across various reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temple leader

Focuses on leadership role within the temple. Changes the structure slightly.

chief priest of the temple

Specifies the priestly role. Adds the 'chief' adjective to specify the importance.

presiding priest of the temple

Emphasizes the action of presiding. Slightly more formal.

spiritual leader of the temple

Highlights the spiritual aspect of leadership.

temple overseer

Suggests an administrative or managerial role.

director of the temple

Implies a more organizational, managerial function.

chief administrator of the temple

Highlights administrative responsibilities.

senior monk of the temple

Specific to Buddhist temples and monastic orders.

high priest of the temple

Implies a formal religious hierarchy.

religious head of the temple

Adds a religious dimension to the meaning.

FAQs

What does "head of the temple" mean?

The phrase "head of the temple" refers to the person in charge or the leader of a religious temple. This individual typically holds a position of authority and responsibility within the temple's organizational structure.

What are some alternative phrases for "head of the temple"?

Some alternative phrases include "temple leader", "chief priest of the temple", or "spiritual leader of the temple".

How do you use "head of the temple" in a sentence?

Example: "The head of the temple delivered a sermon that resonated with the congregation." Another example: "The new "temple leader" is focused on community outreach."

Is "head of the temple" formal or informal language?

The phrase "head of the temple" is considered neutral language and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific situation and audience. Using the correct title of the specific leader, i.e. "Rabbi" or "Reverend", may be preferred.