Work and business / B2

ig-ZEK-y-uh-tiv/ɪɡˈzekjətɪv/

An executive is a senior manager: chief executive; executives. It also names the branch of government that runs the state (the executive). Execute is already in the dictionary and can mean carry out or kill — a sharp mix-up. Administrative is more about process. Do not call every office worker an executive. UK companies: executive pay as a news topic.

Meaning

A senior manager in a company; also the part of government that puts laws into effect.

Examples

• “The chief executive resigned after the profits warning.”
• “Tension grew between the legislature and the executive, which is the government sense.”

Good to know

chief / senior executive; executive pay. Government: the executive. Mix-up: execute. Not every employee. Adjective: executive decision / lounge.

Topics

New