steward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "steward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone who manages or looks after something, often in a context related to responsibility or care for resources or people. Example: "As a steward of the environment, she dedicated her life to promoting sustainability and conservation efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The editor of the Guardian, Alan Rusbridger, had earlier informed government officials that other copies of the files existed outside the country and that the Guardian was neither the sole recipient nor steward of the files leaked by Snowden, a former NSA contractor.

The Guardian

In the film it is the male shop steward who persuades them to make equal pay the object of their industrial action.

The Guardian

My Canadian father had run away to sea and was working as a steward when he met Audrey Lucille.

The Guardian - Travel

Couldn't anyone else see that?" She is the daughter of a trade union family; her mother was a shop steward, her father an active member of the NUM.

The Guardian - Film

"Today we're celebrating 50 years of Notting Hill Carnival," shouts a steward.

The Guardian - Travel

The shop steward, beautifully played by Bob Hoskins, has to wait until they cover themselves before he is prepared to talk to them, while the boy who sweeps the floor is teased about having an erection.

The Guardian

But inside is just a dark room, until a curtain opens and an air steward yells "what are all of you doing in the toilet together?" and ushers me and my group into a replica of a budget airline cabin.

The Guardian - Music

But it isn't all history – Glasgow still has a shipbuilding industry and the Unite union which represents its workers was a vocal critic of the independence campaign, with convenor [shop steward] Duncan Mcphee suggesting that they would "lose their only customer", the Ministry of Defence.

The Guardian

Newman has offered a glimpse of how he, given greater control, would steward Queensland's areas of natural beauty.

The Guardian

As we set off, the steward issued a caution over the intercom: due to their strength, the number of Rob Roys served to each customer would be capped: no more than at 12 per person.

The Guardian - Opinion

Leaping across the plane's cabin, the Irish air steward grabs the wrap-around shades off of some poor guy's nose as if he's just committed the ultimate face furniture faux pas.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "steward", consider the specific context. It often implies a sense of responsibility and care, especially regarding resources or the well-being of others. For example, use "steward of the environment" to denote someone dedicated to environmental protection.

Common error

While "steward" is a versatile word, avoid using it in overly casual situations where simpler terms like "manager" or "caretaker" would be more appropriate. Overusing "steward" in informal contexts can sound pretentious or out of place.

Linguistic Context

The word "steward" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a person who manages or is responsible for something. It can also function as a verb, meaning to manage or take care of something. Ludwig provides examples of both usages, showing its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Formal & Business

27%

Science

24%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "steward" is a versatile term that can function as both a noun and a verb, denoting responsible management and care. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. While "steward" generally implies a sense of responsibility, it's important to use it appropriately, avoiding overuse in informal settings. Consider alternatives like "caretaker", "custodian", or "manager" to best suit the context. Understanding these nuances ensures effective and precise communication when using the word "steward".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

caretaker

Implies a more hands-on, custodial role.

keeper

Implies maintaining and preserving something.

custodian

Suggests a protective role, often associated with institutions or valuable items.

guardian

Emphasizes protection and responsible oversight.

manager

Focuses on administrative and organizational duties.

conservator

Highlights the act of preserving or maintaining something, often in its original condition.

overseer

Implies a supervisory role, ensuring tasks are completed correctly.

trustee

Focuses on managing assets or resources for the benefit of others.

warden

Suggests a role of protection and enforcement of rules.

administrator

Emphasizes the role of organizing and managing affairs.

FAQs

How can I use "steward" in a sentence?

You can use "steward" to describe someone who manages something responsibly, as in "He is a dedicated steward of the company's resources." Alternatively, it can refer to a ship's officer or a flight attendant.

What are some alternatives to the word "steward"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "caretaker", "custodian", "guardian", or "manager".

What is the difference between "steward" and "manager"?

"Steward" often implies a sense of responsibility and care, especially towards resources or people, whereas "manager" is a more general term for someone who oversees operations and personnel. A "manager" focuses on efficiency and achieving goals; a "steward" emphasizes preservation and responsible use.

Is it correct to use "steward" as a verb?

Yes, "steward" can be used as a verb, meaning to manage or take care of something. For example, "The organization aims to steward the community's resources effectively."