What is executive? Pronunciation and usage in English

executive means . Learn how to pronounce and use executive through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of executive

executiveadjective/noun

/ɪɡˈzɛkjʊtɪv//ɛɡˈzɛkjʊtɪv/
Definition & pronunciation of executive

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "executive." It can be tricky! Here's a breakdown with phonetic guidelines and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (Closest to how a native speaker would say it):

  • ek-zek-ˈu-tiv (American English)
  • ek-zek-ˈyə-tiv (British English)

Let's break down each syllable:

  • ek: Pronounced like the "e" in "bed" - /ɛk/
  • zek: Pronounced almost like "zek" but with a slightly softer "z" sound - /zɛk/ (Similar to the "s" in "treasure" but a bit less forceful). Some speakers might reduce this to just “keh”.
  • ˈu: This is the stressed syllable. It's pronounced like "oo" as in "moon" - /ˈuː/ (The 'ˈ' symbol means it's stressed – it’s the loudest and longest part of the syllable).
  • -tiv: Pronounced like "tiv" as in "invent" - /-tɪv/

2. A More Detailed Breakdown & Tips:

  • Emphasis: The stress is very important. It falls on the second syllable ("u").
  • “zek” sound: Don't over-emphasize the "z" sound. It’s subtle. It's not like the "z" in "zebra." It’s more like a softer “s” or a slight “zh” sound.
  • Vowel Sound: The "u" in "u" is a pure "oo" sound, as in "moon".
  • Linking: In casual speech, the first two syllables can sometimes be linked as "ekz-ek-utive." However, striving for the proper pronunciation as shown above is best.

3. Resources for Audio:

To help me give you even more targeted feedback, would you like me to:

  • Record myself saying it?
  • Focus on a particular aspect of the pronunciation (e.g., the "zek" sound)?

Usage and examples with the word executive in English

Let's break down how to use the word "executive" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings, so understanding the context is key. Here's a breakdown:

1. As a Title (Most Common Usage):

  • Meaning: This is the most frequent way you'll encounter "executive." It refers to a high-ranking person in a company or organization.
  • Examples:
    • "The executive director of the marketing department reported to the CEO."
    • "He’s an executive at a large pharmaceutical company."
    • “She was promoted to executive vice president.”
  • Common Titles: Executive Director, Executive Vice President, Executive Assistant, Executive Producer, Executive Chef, Executive Committee member, Executive Board member.
  • Focus: This usage emphasizes position and rank within an organization.

2. Relating to Decision-Making & Management:

  • Meaning: "Executive" can describe actions, decisions, or a style of behavior that is thoughtful, efficient, and strategic. It implies a high level of control and planning.
  • Examples:
    • "The executive summary of the report highlighted the key findings." (A concise and important overview)
    • "The company's executive decisions were praised for their foresight." (Thoughtful and strategic choices)
    • "She has an executive demeanor – calm, composed, and in control." (A confident and organized approach)
    • "He approached the problem with an executive efficiency." (He handled it quickly and effectively)
  • Focus: This usage describes qualities of leadership.

3. (Less Common) A Person with Executive Powers (Historical/Legal):

  • Meaning: Historically, and sometimes in legal contexts, "executive" refers to a person holding the highest position of power in a government (like a President or Prime Minister). This usage is becoming less common.
  • Example: “The executive branch of the government is responsible for enforcing laws.” (Referring to the President and their administration)

Here’s a table to summarize:

Usage Meaning Example
Title High-ranking person in an organization “The Executive Director managed the project.”
Qualities Thoughtful, efficient, strategic “Her executive decision-making was excellent.”
Historical/Legal Highest governmental power “The executive issued the proclamation.”

Tips for Using "Executive" Correctly:

  • Context is crucial: Always consider the surrounding words to determine the intended meaning.
  • Be specific: If possible, use a more precise term (e.g., "vice president" instead of just "executive" when referring to a company role).
  • Tone: "Executive" often carries a slightly formal or professional tone.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • In what context are you trying to use the word "executive"? (e.g., writing a report, having a conversation, describing a job role?)

Synonyms for the word executive

Practice with vocabulary executive

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

Complete the following sentences with the most appropriate word.

  1. The CEO appointed a new ______ to oversee the company's expansion into international markets.
  2. After thorough deliberation, the ______ decision to launch the new product was finalized by the board.
  3. The project team submitted their detailed ______ plan for approval, outlining each phase and required resource.
  4. She currently holds a ______ role within the human resources department, focusing on talent acquisition for senior positions.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

Select all correct answers for each question.

  1. Which of the following titles typically refers to a senior position with significant decision-making power in a corporation? a) Analyst b) Executive c) Intern d) Director e) Junior Associate

  2. The ______ branch of government is primarily responsible for implementing and administering the laws. a) legislative b) judicial c) executive d) bureaucratic

  3. To succeed in this role, candidates must demonstrate strong ______ skills, including the ability to lead teams and make strategic decisions. a) analytical b) collaborative c) executive d) technical

  4. Which term best describes a comprehensive, long-term plan designed to achieve a major goal or overall aim? a) Policy b) Procedure c) Strategy d) Protocol

  5. A person who provides direct support to a manager or team, often handling scheduling, correspondence, and administrative tasks, is typically a/an: a) supervisor b) assistant c) coordinator d) consultant

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

Rewrite the following sentences as instructed.

  1. The highest-ranking leaders in the corporation gathered for their quarterly strategy review. (Rewrite using a form of "executive") The corporation's ______ gathered for their quarterly strategy review.

  2. The board of directors needs to approve the plan before it can be put into action. (Rewrite using a form of "executive") The board of directors needs to grant ______ approval before the plan can be put into action.

  3. The new department head is responsible for managing all daily operations. (Rewrite without using "executive") The new department head is responsible for overseeing all daily ______.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The CEO appointed a new executive to oversee the company's expansion into international markets.
  2. After thorough deliberation, the executive decision to launch the new product was finalized by the board.
  3. The project team submitted their detailed strategic plan for approval, outlining each phase and required resource.
  4. She currently holds a senior role within the human resources department, focusing on talent acquisition for senior positions.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Executive, d) Director
  2. c) executive
  3. c) executive
  4. c) Strategy
  5. b) assistant, c) coordinator

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The corporation's executives gathered for their quarterly strategy review.
  2. The board of directors needs to grant executive approval before the plan can be put into action.
  3. The new department head is responsible for overseeing all daily administration.

Comment ()